Portable coffee brewing device

ABSTRACT

A portable coffee brewing system includes a top housing containing a pump and a tube. Portable coffee brewing system also includes a basket housing having a punch operatively connected to the top housing and having a receiving member; the basket housing having a receiving member configured to receive a basket. The basket being capable of holding a coffee grounds holding device which is capable of holding coffee grounds. A nozzle is attached to the lower part of the basket to create an opening for fluid to flow through. The system providing a user with a means of brewing coffee by inserting a coffee grounds holding device into a basket. A punch within the basket punctures the coffee grounds holding device; the basket then being operably connected to the rest of the system so fluid can move through the system when the system is activated to brew coffee or other beverages.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/979,895 which was filed on May 15, 2018, which was acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/660,504which was filed on July 27, 2017, which was a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/246,598 which was filed on Aug. 25, 2016,which was a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/585,317 filed on Dec. 30, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/922,239 filed Dec. 31, 2013.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to coffee brewing. More specifically, andwithout limitation, this disclosure relates to a portable coffee brewingdevice.

Coffee brewing is old and well known in the art. Initially, coffee wasbrewed by mixing ground coffee beans with water in a pot or other vesselwhich was placed over a source of heat. As the water warmed, the groundbeans released flavors into the water, thereby forming what is known ascoffee. Once this process was completed, the coffee grounds wereseparated from the coffee and the coffee was consumed.

With the advent and mass adoption of electricity, the technology ofcoffee brewing took a major leap forward. With the use of electricity,countless forms and designs of coffee machines or coffee makers(hereinafter “coffee makers”) were developed. Manufacturers of thesecoffee makers include Cuisinart, Mr. Coffee, Hamilton Beach, KitchenAid, Bunn and countless others. Conventionally these devices include abase, an internal heating element which is connected to a source ofelectricity, a reservoir for holding water, a pot to receive the coffeeand a coffee grounds holding device to hold the coffee grounds.Typically, these devices are designed to sit on a counter top and beused in a kitchen in a stationary and non-portable manner. As such,these conventional coffee makers are often bulky and are formed ofmultiple pieces and therefore these devices are not easily portable.

Understanding that conventional coffee makers are generallynon-portable, yet many coffee drinkers like to take their coffee withthem in the morning to work or to run errands, some manufacturersdeveloped what are commonly known as personal coffee makers. Thesepersonal coffee makers are designed to make a single serving of coffeethat can be poured into a to-go cup or travel mug. Some of thesepersonal coffee makers are even designed to pour directly into the cupor travel mug, thereby avoiding the additional step of having to pourthe coffee from the pot into the cup or travel mug. While these personalcoffee makers have made it somewhat easier for someone to take coffeewith them on the go, these personal coffee makers themselves are no moreportable than conventional coffee makers.

Therefore, for the reasons stated above, and for other reasons statedbelow, which will become apparent to those skilled in the art uponreading and understanding the specification, and the drawings, there isa need in the art for a portable coffee brewing device.

Thus, it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a portablecoffee brewing device that improves upon the state of the art.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that is easy to use.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that brews a pleasing and high quality cup of coffee.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that is inexpensive to manufacture.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that has an intuitive design.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that has a robust and durable design.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that has a long and useful life.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that has a simple and ergonomic design.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that allows a user to make a fresh cup of coffee wheneverand wherever they so desire.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that allows a user to load the device with water and coffeegrounds at one time and one place while allowing for brewing of thecoffee at another time and another place.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that uses what are known as K-cups.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that has an appealing design.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that is safe to use.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that is easy to clean.

Another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffee brewingdevice that does not leak.

Yet another object of the disclosure to provide a portable coffeebrewing device that uses disposable coffee grounds holding devices.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffee brewingsystem that is sealed and does not spill or leak in transport.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffeebrewing system capable of recirculating fluid.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffee brewingsystem that can accommodate a K-cup.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffeebrewing system that consumes little to no power.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffee brewingsystem that can operate on a timer.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a portable coffeebrewing system that facilitates cold brewing.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the disclosure willbecome apparent from the specification, drawings and claims.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A portable coffee brewing device includes a lid pivotally connected toan upper end of the container by a hinge and button. A heating elementhousing and an electrical component housing is connected to a lower endof the container. A drain is positioned in a bottom wall of thecontainer and is fluidly connected to a heating element positionedwithin the heating element housing. The heating element is controlled byelectrical components positioned in the electrical components housing. Adrip tube is fluidly connected to the heating element and the lid. Asingle serve coffee holding device is positioned below the lid. When thecontainer is filled with fluid and the heating element is powered,heated fluid is forced up the drip tube through the passageway in thelid and into the coffee grounds holding device in a continuous cycle.The device is connectable to an external power source.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable coffee brewing device withthe lid in a closed position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portable coffee brewing device withthe lid in an open position showing the K-cup holder or insert;

FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of a portable coffee brewingdevice showing the components thereof;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of a portable coffee brewing device;

FIG. 5 is a side cut-away elevation view of a portable coffee brewingdevice; and

FIG. 6 is a side cut-away close-up perspective view of the bottom of aportable coffee brewing device;

FIG. 7 is a side cut-away elevation view of a second embodiment of aportable coffee brewing device having a lid formed of a lower componentand an upper component, a pump positioned within the lid and a coffeebasin positioned within the lid;

FIG. 8A is a side cut-away elevation exploded view of the lid of theportable coffee brewing device of FIG. 7 having a lower component and anupper component, a pump positioned within the lid and a coffee basinpositioned within the lid;

FIG. 8B is a bottom elevation view of the upper component of the lid ofFIGS. 7 and 8A;

FIG. 8C is a bottom elevation view of the lower component of the lid ofFIGS. 7 and 8A

FIG. 8D is a top elevation view of the lower component of the lid ofFIGS. 7, 8A and 8C;

FIG. 9 is a side cut away elevation view of a third embodiment of aportable coffee brewing device having a lid formed of a lower componentand an upper component, a pump positioned within a bottom component;

FIG. 10 is a perspective exploded view of a fourth embodiment of aportable coffee brewing device having a container, a sleeve, a lidhingedly connected to the container, a removable basket that isconfigured to hold a coffee grounds holding device, a heating elementwrapped around the sleeve and positioned between the sleeve and thecontainer, an electrical components housing connected to the bottom endof the container housing a pump and other electronic components, adigital display and an alarm positioned in the sidewall of theelectrical components housing, the view showing the heating elementwrapped around the sleeve and a layer of thermal insulating materialwrapped around the heating element;

FIG. 11 is a close-up perspective view of the lower end of the containerof the portable coffee brewing device shown in FIG. 10, the view showingthe pump, sensor and electrical components housing;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the view showing the lid open;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 10-12, the view showing the lid open and thebasket in a removed position and the view showing the coffee groundsholding container in a removed condition;

FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 10-13, the view showing the lid in an open position;

FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 10-14, the view showing the lid in an open position;

FIG. 16 is a rear elevation view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 10-15, the view showing the lid in an open position;

FIG. 17 is a side elevation exploded view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 10-16;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation exploded view of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a side elevation cut-away view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 10-18, the view showing the lid in an openposition;

FIG. 20 is a side elevation cut-away view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIG. 20, the view showing the lid in a closed position;

FIG. 21 is a close up side elevation cut-away view of the lower end ofthe portable coffee brewing device shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a close up side elevation cut-away view of the upper end ofthe portable coffee brewing device shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a plan view of the electrical components of the systemincluding the circuit board, microprocessor, transceiver, antenna,sensor, heating element, pump, display, alarm, plug and switch, as wellas its wireless connection with its related application run on acomputing device and controlled through wireless control signals overthe air or through an electronic network;

FIG. 24 is an elevation view of a first side of another embodiment of aportable coffee brewing system that has a container, a lid and a firstchamber and a second chamber;

FIG. 25 is an elevation view of a second side of the portable coffeebrewing device shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a third side of the portable coffeebrewing device shown in FIGS. 24-25;

FIG. 27 is an elevation view of a fourth side of the portable coffeebrewing device shown in FIGS. 24-26;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 24-27;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the portable coffee brewing deviceshown in FIGS. 24-28, the view showing the first cover in an openposition showing the basket therein, the view also showing the secondcover in an open position showing the pour spout;

FIG. 30 is an elevation section view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-29;

FIG. 30 is an elevation section view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-29, the section view along line AA shown inFIG. 24;

FIG. 31 is an elevation section view of the top side of the portablecoffee brewing device shown in FIGS. 24-30;

FIG. 32 is an elevation section view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-31, the section view along line BB shown inFIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is an elevation section view of the top side of the portablecoffee brewing device shown in FIGS. 24-32;

FIG. 34 is an elevation section view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-33, the section view along line CC shown inFIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is an elevation section view of the bottom side of the portablecoffee brewing device shown in FIGS. 24-34;

FIG. 36 is an elevation section view of the top side of the portablecoffee brewing device shown in FIGS. 24-35, the view showing portions ofthe lid remove so as to expose the basket and fill opening;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the lid of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-36, the view showing the first cover in an openposition showing the basket therein, the view also showing the secondcover in an open position showing the pour spout;

FIG. 38 is an elevation view of the lid of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-37;

FIG. 39 is an elevation section view of the lid of the portable coffeebrewing device shown in FIGS. 24-38, the section view along line AAshown in FIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is a perspective exploded view of the portable coffee brewingdevice shown in FIGS. 24-39;

FIG. 41 is an elevation view of the top housing of the portable coffeebrewing device shown in FIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing withan On/Off button, a basket housing, a basket and a tube;

FIG. 42 is an elevation view of the portable coffee brewing device shownin FIGS. 41-51, the view showing the exterior of the connected tophousing and bottom housing;

FIG. 43 is a partially exploded elevation view, the view showing the tophousing, the pump, the tube, the microprocessor, the socket, the plug,the basket housing with the punch, and the basket;

FIG. 44 is an elevation view, the view showing a top housing engagedwith a container;

FIG. 45 is an elevation section view of the top housing of the portablecoffee brewing device shown in FIGS. 41-51, the view showing the hollowinterior of the top housing, the view showing some of the componentshoused within the top housing; the view showing a container threadedlyattached to the collar and a coffee grounds holding device receivingfluid from the tube, the fluid being moved from the container to thecoffee grounds holding device;

FIG. 46 is an elevation view of the portable coffee brewing device shownin FIGS. 41-51, the view showing the top housing with a plug extendingtherefrom; the view showing a container engaged with the top housinghaving a tube and a coffee grounds holding device in the hollow interiorof the container;

FIG. 47 is a left side elevation view of the portable coffee brewingdevice of FIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing engaged with abottom housing;

FIG. 48 is a right side elevation view of the portable coffee brewingdevice of FIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing engaged with abottom housing;

FIG. 49 is a top elevation view of the portable coffee brewing device ofFIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing engaged with a bottomhousing;

FIG. 50 is a bottom elevation view of the portable coffee brewing deviceof FIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing engaged with a bottomhousing;

FIG. 51 is a front, top perspective view of the portable coffee brewingdevice of FIGS. 41-51, the view showing a top housing engaged with abottom housing;

FIG. 52 is a countertop coffee brewing device, the view showing a coffeebrewing device with a top housing, a middle housing, a basket housing, acoffee grounds holding device, a container and a tube; the view showinga hollow interior of a top housing including a pump, a liftingmechanism, a tube, a plurality of valves, and a reservoir housed withinthe top housing; the view showing a socket, a timer, an indicator, andan On/Off button on the exterior of the middle housing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown byway of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may bepracticed. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is tobe understood that other embodiments may be utilized and thatmechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the disclosures. The following detaileddescription is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and thescope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims,along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims areentitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top,bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the viewspresented and with respect to the orientation of related parts andpieces as is described herein. It should be understood, however, thatthe terms are used only for purposes of description, and are notintended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of anobject or a combination of objects may change without departing from thescope of the disclosure.

A portable coffee brewing system 10 is presented in the figures. Thesystem 10 includes a container 12, a heating element housing 14 thatholds a heating element 16, an electrical components housing 18 thatholds electrical components 20, a lid 22, a holder or insert 24, and acoffee grounds holding device 26.

Container: Container 12 is formed of any suitable size, shape and designand is any form of a liquid holding vessel such as a cup, a mug, atravel mug, a thermal mug, or the like. In one arrangement, as is shown,container 12 includes a sidewall 28 that extends in a generally circularmanner from an upper end 30 to a lower end 32.

Sidewall 28 connects at or near its lower end 32 to bottom wall 34 thatdefines the bottom of the hollow interior 36 formed by container 12.Sidewall 14 terminates in an open upper end to which lid 22 isconnected.

In one arrangement, sidewall 14 includes connecting features, such asthreads, snap-fit-features, grooves or the like, adjacent either theinterior surface or exterior surface of the open upper end 30 ofsidewall 28. These connecting features are used for connecting lid 22 tocontainer 12 in a manner that allows lid 20 to be opened if not removedentirely.

In one arrangement, as is shown, lid 20 connects to container 12 byhinge 38. In the arrangement shown, hinge 38 is positioned in therearward upper end of sidewall 28. Lid 22 pivots upon hinge 38 betweenan open position and a closed position around axis 40 that extendsthrough the center of hinge 38.

In one arrangement, as is shown, a button 42 is positioned at or nearthe upper end 30 of sidewall 28, on the opposite side of container fromopposite hinge 38. Button 42 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is used to hold lid 20 in a closed position as well asrelease lid 20 to an open position. Button 42 slides laterally adistance toward and away from the center of container 12 and is urgedforward by a biasing member (not shown) such as a spring, compressiblepiece of material or a flexible member, so as to hold lid 22 in a closedposition.

In the arrangement shown, button 42 includes a pair of latching arms 44,one on either side of button 42, the latching arms 44 each having arounded or angled upper surface 46 that connects to a generally flatbottom surface 48 or locking surface. These latching arms 44 engage andconnect to mating features in the underside of lid 22.

As the lid 22 is lowered, the bottom surface of lid 22 engages therounded or angled surfaces 46 of latching arms 44 which causes thebutton 42 to move rearward against the force of biasing member andtowards the center of container 12. This movement continues until therounded or angled surface 46 of latching arms 44 pass the mating featureof lid 22, at which point the biasing member forces the button 42forward as the flat or locking surfaces 48 of latching arms 44 engageand hold onto the lid 22 thereby locking the lid 22 in a closedposition.

Button 42 is positioned in front of and/or around a pour spout 50connected to container 12. Pour spout 50 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design. In the arrangement shown, as one example, pour spout50 is connected to the interior surface of sidewall 28 adjacent itsupper end 30 opposite hinge 38. Pour spout 50 provides fluidcommunication from the hollow interior 36 of container 12 to lid 22.

Container 12 includes a lip 52. Lip 52 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, lip 52 extends aroundthe interior surface of sidewall 28 and extends inward therefrom adistance. Lip 52 is recessed a distance below the upper end 30 ofsidewall 28.

Container 12 also includes a drip tube 54. Drip tube 54 is formed of anysuitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, driptube 54 is a generally circular tube that extends from below the bottomwall 34 to at or near the upper end 30 of sidewall 28. In onearrangement, drip tube 54 is connected to, positioned within sidewall 28of container 12. In this arrangement, where drip tube 54 is a separatepiece from container 12, drip tube 54 is removable so as to allowcleaning or replacement of drip tube 54. Alternatively, drip tube 54 isformed on or in sidewall 28 as part of sidewall 28.

The lower end of drip tube 54 fluidly connects to heating element 16,either directly or by way of connection to one or more other components.The upper end of drip tube 54 fluidly connects to lid 22, eitherdirectly or by way of connection to one or more other components. Inthis way, drip tube 54 provides a fluid conduit from below bottom wall34 to lid 22.

Container 12 also includes a drain 56. Drain 56 is formed of anysuitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, drain56 is positioned within bottom wall 34 and provides a fluid passagewayfrom the hollow interior 36 of container 12 to the heating element 16.In one arrangement, the drain 56 is centrally positioned in the bottomwall 34 so as to allow the heating element container 14 to be screwedonto the lower end 32 of container 12 in a removable and replaceablefashion. Alternatively, as in the arrangement shown, drain 56 ispositioned in an off-center arrangement.

Drain 56 includes a filter or screen 58 that covers the drain 56 andprevents particles, such as coffee grinds, from entering drain 56 andplugging it. Drain 56 also includes a valve or check valve 60. Checkvalve 60 allows for fluid to flow through valve 60 in one direction, butprevents fluid flow in an opposite direction. In this application, checkvalve 60 allows fluid to flow from hollow interior 36 to heating element16, but prevents flow in the opposite direction. In this way, as thefluid is boiled by the heating element 16, the fluid is forced up thedrip tube 54, through lid 22 and back into the hollow interior 36thereby causing continuous circulation of fluid.

Lid: Lid 22 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. Lid 22connects to the upper end 30 of container 12. In one arrangement, as isshown, lid 22 is generally circular in shape when viewed from above andmatingly engages the upper end 30 of container 12.

The rearward side of lid 22 connects to hinge 38 and the forward side oflid 22 connects to button 42. In this way, lid 22 is locked in a closedposition by button 42, while releasing button 42 allows lid 22 to beopened upon hinge 38 thereby providing access to the hollow interior 36of container 12.

The forward end of lid 22 includes a lip 62 that protrudes above theupper edge 64 of lid 22. Lid 22 includes a pour spout 66 that ispositioned just rearward of lip 62. Pour spout 66 of lid 22 fluidlyconnects with pour spout 50 of container 12 when lid 22 is in a closedposition.

Pour spout 66 of lid 22 is selectively opened and closed by cover 68.Cover 68 is any device that opens and closes pour spout 66. In thearrangement shown, as one example, cover 68 slides forward, to cover andclose pour spout 66, and slides rearward to uncover pour spout 66,however any other form of a cover is hereby contemplated for use.

Lid 22 includes a passageway 70 therein (which is depicted by arrow 70).Passageway 70 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design andprovides a fluid conduit from drip tube 54 to holder or insert 24 and/orcoffee grounds holding device 26.

In one arrangement, as is shown, passageway 70 includes a verticalportion 72 that is positioned at the rearward side of lid 22 and fluidlycommunicates with drip tube 54, and a horizontal portion 74 that extendstoward the center of lid 22 and fluidly communicates with holder orinsert 24 and/or coffee grounds holding device 26.

In one arrangement, vertical portion 72 of passageway 70 connects to aflexible tube portion 76. Flexible tube portion 76 connects the upperend of drip tube 54 to the lower end of vertical portion 70 ofpassageway 70. As flexible tube portion 76 is flexible, it allows foropening and closing of lid 22 while keeping passageway 70 and drip tube54 in fluid sealed communication.

In an alternative arrangement, vertical portion 72 and the upper end ofdrip tube 54 connect and seal to one another when lid 22 is in a closedposition, whereas when lid 22 is in an open position vertical portion 72and the upper end of drip tube 54 separate from one another. In thisarrangement, to ensure proper sealing any form of a connection can beused. As examples, a compressible seal is positioned between thevertical portion 72 and the upper end of drip tube 54, the verticalportion 72 and the upper end of drip tube 54 are formed in matingoverlapping condition when closed, or any other arrangement.

In one arrangement, as is shown, horizontal portion 74 is generallycircular in shape and includes a sloped bottom wall 78 that anglesdownward as it extends toward the center of lid 22. This sloped bottomwall 78 includes at least one nipple 80 having an opening therein.Nipple 80 extends downward from the sloped bottom wall 78 such that whenlid 22 is closed, nipple 80 punctures the coffee grounds holding device26 thereby providing an opening and access for fluid into the coffeegrounds holding device 26. As the bottom wall 78 is sloped downward, asthe horizontal portion 74 fills with fluid, the force of gravity movesthe fluid along the sloped bottom wall 78 into the coffee groundsholding device 26.

Holder or Insert: Holder or insert 24 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown, holder or insert 24is sized and shaped to be positioned between container 12 and lid 22 andheld in place there between when lid 22 is in a closed position. Holderor insert 24 includes a generally circular opening 82 positioned at itsmiddle that is defined by a collar 84 that extends around the opening82. Collar 84 includes at least one step 86 therein that is narrowerthan the collar 84. This step 86 is sized and shaped to matingly receiveand hold a similar step in coffee grounds holding device 26 so as toprevent coffee grounds holding device 26 from falling through holder orinsert 24.

A flange 88 extends outward from collar 84 in a generally flat andplanar manner. Flange 88 is sized and shaped to fit just within theinterior surface of sidewall 28 and sit on top of lip 52 adjacent theupper end 30 of container 12. Flange 88 includes a forward notch 90therein that is sized and shaped to fit around the pour spout 66 ofcontainer 12. Flange 88 also includes a rearward notch 92 therein thatis sized and shaped to fit around the area wherein drip tube 54 connectswith passageway 70 of lid 22.

A frame member 96 connects to and extends downward from collar 84. Framemember 96 extends downward from collar 84 and connects to a bottom wall98 having a nipple 100 with an opening therein. Nipple 100 extendsupward from bottom wall 98. Frame member 96 and bottom wall 98 are sizedand shaped to receive coffee grounds holding device 26 therein withclose and tight clearance therein. Frame member 96 and bottom wall 98may be skeletonized in shape, or they can be formed of a solidcontinuous wall.

When coffee grounds holding device 26 is placed in holder or insert 24and lid 22 is closed, nipple 100 penetrates the bottom wall of coffeegrounds holding device 26 thereby providing an exit for fluid flowinginto the coffee grounds holding device 26.

Coffee Grounds Holding Device: Coffee grounds holding device 26 isformed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as isshown, coffee grounds holding device 26 is formed of what is commonlyknown as a “K-cup” which was designed and originally manufactured anddistributed under the name Keurig which is part of Keurig GreenMountain, Inc. which has its headquarters in Waterbury, Vt. These coffeegrounds holding devices 26 are single use, single serve and are formedof a plastic container that is generally circular sidewall 102 in shapeand narrows as it extends downward before terminating in a bottom wall104. The coffee grounds holding device 26 includes a flange 106connected to the upper end of sidewall 102 and extends outwardtherefrom, as well as one or more steps 108 positioned between theflange 106 and the sidewall 102.

The hollow interior formed by the coffee grounds holding device 26 isenclosed by a foil cover 110. A filter member 112 is positioned withinthe hollow interior of the coffee grounds holding device 26 and holds anamount of coffee grounds 114 therein. The filter member 112 allows forthe passage of fluids there through while preventing the passage ofcoffee grounds 114. This arrangement allows for quick and easy insertionand removal of a coffee grounds holding device 26 into holder or insert24 when the lid 22 is in an open positions.

Heating Element Housing: Heating element housing 14 is formed of anysuitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as is shown,heating element housing 14 is generally circular in shape or disc shapedand connects to the lower end 32 of container 12. Heating elementhousing 14 connects to container 12 by any manner or means. In onearrangement, heating element housing 14 is permanently connected to andsealed to the bottom of container 12, such as by use of welding,adhesive, friction fit, locking engagement, or any other method ormeans. In an alternative arrangement, heating element housing 14 isconnected to the bottom of container 12 by any removable manner or meanssuch as threaded engagement, snap fit, friction fit or any other methodor means. By being removable, this allows the components of heatingelement housing 14 to be accessed and cleaned. By being permanentlyaffixed, this ensures that heating element housing 14 is permanently andproperly sealed ensuring that water does not infiltrate the hollowinterior of heating element housing 14. In one arrangement, as is shown,the upper end of heating element housing 14 has a step 116 that ismatingly received by, and fits just within, the interior surface of thelower end 32 of container 12, just below bottom wall 34.

Heating element housing 14 holds heating element 16. Heating element 16is formed of any device which receives and heats fluids in container 12.In one arrangement, as is shown, heating element 16 is formed of anelectrical conduit 118 that is connected to heating tube 120.

Electrical conduit 118 and heating tube 120 are formed of any suitablesize, shape and design. In the arrangement shown, electrical conduit 118and heating tube 120 are formed in a U-shape, however any other shape ishereby contemplated, such as a coil, spiral, zig-zag, or any othershape.

In the arrangement shown, electrical conduit 118 includes an openingthrough its middle that receives an electrical filament that whenpowered generates heat. Heating tube 120 is in direct physical contactto electrical conduit 118 throughout all or the majority of its lengthso that heat generated by electrical conduit 118 is efficiently absorbedor transmitted to heating tube 120, which is a hollow tube.

The entry end of heating tube 120 is fluidly connected to drain 56 so asto receive fluid from container 12. The exit end of heating tube 120 isfluidly connected to the lower end of drip tube 54. Due to the one-waycheck valve 60 in drain 56, heating tube 120 receives fluid fromcontainer 12, as the fluid is heated by electrical conduit 118 the fluidboils and expands. The expanding fluid cannot move against the checkvalve 60 and therefore it is forced up the drip tube 54.

In one arrangement, heating element housing 14 is insulated so as tosealing the heat generated from electrical conduit 118 and to preventheat from transferring to other portions of the device 10.

Electrical Components Housing: Electrical components housing 18 isformed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, as isshown, electrical components housing 18 is generally circular in shapeor disc shaped and connects to the lower end of heating element housing14 and thereby forms the bottom of portable coffee brewing device 10.Electrical components housing 18 connects to container 12/heatingelement housing 14 by any manner or means. In one arrangement,electrical components housing 18 is permanently connected to and sealedto the bottom of container 12/heating element housing 14, such as by useof welding, adhesive, friction fit, locking engagement, or any othermethod or means. In an alternative arrangement, electrical componentshousing 18 is connected to the bottom of container 12/heating elementhousing 14 by any removable manner or means such as threaded engagement,snap fit, friction fit or any other method or means. By being removable,this allows the components of electrical components housing 18 to beaccessed and cleaned. By being permanently affixed, this ensures thatelectrical components housing 18 is permanently and properly sealedensuring that water does not infiltrate the hollow interior ofelectrical components housing 18.

Electrical components housing 18 holds electrical components 20.Electrical components 20 are formed of any electrical components neededto turn on, turn off and control the portable coffee brewing device 10.These electrical components 20 are electrically connected to electricalconduit 118 and thereby powers on and powers off electrical conduit 118.

In one arrangement, as is shown, electrical components 20 include aswitch 122 which controls the flow of energy to the electrical conduit118.

In one arrangement, as is shown, electrical components 20 also include asensor 124 which senses the temperature of the fluids within thecontainer 12 and/or the temperature of the electrical conduit 118 and/orthe temperature of the heating tube 120.

In one arrangement, as is shown, electrical components 20 also include amicroprocessor 126 which receives information from the other electricalcomponents 20 and processes this information based on instructionsstored in memory and outputs results. In one arrangement, microprocessor126 includes a clock or clock function which controls the amount of timethe amount of time or duration that the electrical conduit 118 ispowered.

In one arrangement the sensor 124 turns on and turns off the power toelectrical conduit 118 based upon the sensed temperature, in anotherarrangement, the sensor 124 transmits the sensed temperature to themicroprocessor 126 which controls the turning on and turning off of thepower to the electrical conduit 118.

In one arrangement, the check valve 60 is mechanical in nature, whereasin another arrangement microprocessor 126 controls the operation ofcheck valve 60. In this arrangement, the microprocessor 126 isprogrammed to close the check valve 60 a period of time before cuttingpower to the electrical conduit 118. This allows the remaining amount offluid in the heating tube 120 to be boiled and transmitted up the driptube 54 so as clearing the drip tube 54 and heating tube 120 beforeturning off the system 10. This prevents fluid from being stuck in theheating tube 120 between uses.

Electrical components housing 18 includes any other electricalcomponents needed to operate portable coffee brewing system 10.

In an alternative arrangement, electrical components housing 18 andheating element housing 14 are combined into a single housing.

Socket & Plug: A socket 128 is connected to the portable coffee brewingsystem 10. Socket 128 is formed of any suitable size, shape and designand serves to connect portable coffee brewing device 10 to an externalpower source. Any form of a socket 128 that connects two componentstogether and allows for electrical transmission there between is herebycontemplated for use, these include a two wire socket, a three wiresocket, a headphones jack, a USB socket, or any other form of socket.Socket 128 is sized and shaped to matingly receive plug 130 in aremovable manner. Plug 130 is connected to a power lead 132 which isdesigned to be connected to an external power source, such as awall-plug-in, a USB port, a cigarette lighter socket in a vehicle, orany other source of power.

In Operation: A user desiring to use the portable coffee brewing system10 fills opens the lid 22 by pressing button 42. This allows lid 22 tobe pivotally opened on hinge 38. This exposes the holder or insert 24.If no coffee grounds holding device 26 is present, the user can simplypour the desired amount of water into the container 12 through theopening in the center of the holder or insert 24. If a coffee groundsholding device 26 is present, the user can remove coffee grounds holdingdevice 26 or the holder or insert 24 entirely which will expose the openupper end of container 12 allowing the user to fill it with the desiredamount of fluid.

Once container 12 is filled with fluid, the user replaces the holder orinsert 24 by aligning the forward notch 90 with the pour spout 66 andthe rearward notch 92 with the drip tube 54 and allows the holder orinsert 24 to sit upon lip 52. Once the holder or insert 24 is this fullyinstalled position, the user selects their desired coffee ground holdingdevice 26 (also known as a K-cup) and places the coffee ground holdingdevice 26 within the opening 82 until it settles there within and theflange 106 and steps 108 of coffee ground holding device 26 engages thecollar 84 and steps 86 of holder or insert 24.

With the container 12 filled with water, and the coffee ground holdingdevice 26 installed in the installed holder or insert 24, the user nextcloses the lid 22. As the lid is closed, the rounded or angled uppersurface 46 of latching arms 44 engage the underside of lid 22 as it isforced downward toward container 12. As the lid 22 moves downward, therounded or angled upper surfaces 46 of latching arms 44 force the button42 rearward against the biasing force of biasing member until the bottomsurface or locking surface 48 of latching arms 44 grab hold of the lid22. In this position, the lid 22 is fully closed and the seam linebetween the upper end 30 of container 12 is fully sealed with the lowerend of lid 22 in a watertight manner. In one arrangement, a compressiblemember, such as a plastic or rubber or composite O-ring is placed at theintersection of the container 12 and lid 22 to ensure proper sealing.

As the lid 22 is closed, this forces nipple 80 in the bottom surface oflid 22/sloped bottom wall 78 to penetrate the cover 110 of the coffeegrounds holding device 26 thereby providing a fluid passageway into thecoffee grounds holding device 26. Similarly, as the lid 22 is closed,this forces nipple 100 in the bottom wall 98 of holder or insert 24 topenetrate the bottom wall 104 of the coffee grounds holding device 26thereby providing a fluid passageway out of the coffee grounds holdingdevice 26 and into container 12.

In this condition, the portable coffee brewing device 10 is bothportable as well as ready to brew a fresh cup of coffee.

When the user arrives at their location, such as at their office, theyplug power lead 132 into an external power source and then they insertplug 132 into socket 128 which powers the device. In the arrangementwherein the check valve 60 is powered, the microprocessor 126 opens thepowered check valve 60 which allows fluid to pass through drain 56 andinto heating tube 120. Alternatively, wherein the check valve 60 isunpowered, fluid is allowed to move through drain 56 and into heatingtube 12, but not the opposite direction.

Simultaneously, power is transmitted to the electrical conduit 118 whichgenerates heat. This heat is transmitted to heating tube 120 and fluidwithin the heating tube 120, which is allowed through check valve 60 isheated. As the fluid is heated, its volume expands and fluid is forcedthrough the only escape it has, and that is through the drip tube 54(because it cannot move against or in the opposite direction of thecheck valve 60.

The heated fluid travels up the drip tube 54, through the flexible tubeportion 76 and into the passageway 70 in lid 22. That is the fluid firstmoves through the vertical portion 72 of the passageway 70 beforeentering the horizontal portion 74 of the passageway 70. From there, theforce of gravity, as well as the hydrodynamic forces of the expandingfluid coming up the drip tube 54, forces the heated fluid to drain downthe sloped bottom wall 78 of the passageway 70, through the opening innipple 80 and into coffee grounds holding device 26.

Once the heated fluid is in the coffee grounds holding device 26, theheated fluid drains through the coffee grounds 114, through the filtermember 112 and out of the hole in the bottom wall 104 of coffee groundsholding device 26 formed by nipple 100. As the heated fluid, which isnow coffee, passes through nipple 100 the heated fluid enters the againcontainer 12 and the process is repeated in a continuous flow, similarto the process of what is known as a percolator.

Throughout the process, the sensor 124 and microprocessor 126 track thesystem. The sensor 124 and/or the microprocessor 126 will turn on orturn off the power to the electrical conduit 118 when the temperatureexceeds a maximum predetermined temperature, or when the predeterminedamount of time for brewing has been exceeded.

When the coffee is fully brewed, the user unplugs the power lead 132 andslides the cover 68 rearward thereby exposing the pour spout 66 whichallows the user to drink directly from the container 12.

To remove and replace the coffee grounds holding device 26 the lid 22 isagain opened and the coffee grounds holding device 26 is replaced.

Alternative Arrangement: In an alternative arrangement, with referenceto FIGS. 7-8D a portable coffee brewing system 210 is presented in thefigures. The system 210 includes a container 212. Container 212 is anyform of a liquid holding vessel such as a cup, a mug, a travel mug, athermal mug, or the like. In one arrangement, container 212 includes asidewall 214 that surrounds and connects at its bottom edge to bottom216. Sidewall 214 terminates in an open upper end 218 adjacent its endopposite bottom 216. In one arrangement, sidewall 214 includesconnecting features 220, such as threads, snap-fit-features, grooves orthe like, adjacent either the interior surface and/or exterior surfaceof the open upper end 218 of sidewall 214. These connecting features 220are used for connecting lid 222 to container 212.

Lid 222 is formed of any suitable size shape and design. Lid 222 isremovably connected to the open upper end 218 of container 212 andtherefore seals and closes container 212 in a water-tight manner. Lid222 also serves to hold the brewing components therein as is furtherdescribed herein.

As one example, in the arrangement shown, lid 222 is formed of a lowercomponent 224 and an upper component 226. The lower end 227 of lowercomponent 224 includes a connecting member 228 that is sized and shapedto connect with or matingly engage connecting features 220 of the upperend of sidewall 214. As one example, in the arrangement shown,connecting features 220 of the upper end of sidewall 214 are threadspositioned on the inside of the sidewall 214, whereas the a connectingmember 228 of the lower end of lower component 224 includes a slightlynecked-in portion with threads on its exterior surface that are sizedand shaped to engage the threads of the connecting feature 220. In thisway, as one example, lower component 224 can be installed on and removedfrom container 212 in a manner that seals the two components together.Lower component 224 can be removably and replaceably connected tocontainer 212 in countless other ways, such as by replacing the threadsof the connecting member 228 with a flexible and/or compressible sealthat allows for a press-fit frictional engagement between container 212and lower component 224, or any other arrangement that allows twocomponents to be connected together.

Lower component 224 includes a main body 230 that is connected to theupper end of connecting member 228. In one arrangement, the exteriorsurface of main body 230 is wider than the connecting member 228 suchthat the exterior surface of main body 230 is approximately in parallelalignment or smooth and continuing alignment with the exterior surfaceof sidewall 214 so as to provide a flush and flat alignment between thelower component 224 and the container 212 when connected together.

A lower straw 232 extends outwardly from the bottom of lower component224 a distance into the open interior of container 212 when installedthereon. Lower straw 232 also extends through at least a portion oflower component 224 and terminates in an open upper end 233 which isaligned to receive and connect to a portion of upper component 226 as isdescribed herein.

Lower component 224 also includes a coffee basin 234 therein. Coffeebasin 34 is any size which is designed to receive and hold coffeegrounds therein for brewing purposes. In the arrangement shown, coffeebasin 234 is an opening or recess in the lower portion 224. In thearrangement shown, the lower end of coffee basin 234 includes a nozzle236 or opening through which liquid can pass after passing through thecoffee grounds held in the coffee basin 234. Alternatively, the lowerend of coffee basin 234 includes a plurality of nozzles 236 or a mesh orfilter material, or any other device that serves the purpose of holdingcoffee grounds while allowing liquid to pass through it.

A passageway 238 is positioned adjacent the coffee basin 234. Passageway238 is an opening that extends through the lower component 224 from thelower end to the upper end. Passageway 238 is sized and shaped to belarge enough to easily allow coffee to flow out of the container 212through the passageway 238 when a user desires to drink from container212, and is also large enough for a user to add cream and sugar to thecontainer through passageway 238 when they so desire.

Lower component 224 terminates in an upper edge 240 that is generallyflat. Adjacent the upper edge 240 is a hinge 242. Hinge 242 connectslower component 224 to upper component 226 such that the upper component226 can rotate upon hinge 242 between a closed position, wherein theupper component 226 is engaged with the lower component 224, and an openposition, wherein the upper component 226 is separated from the lowercomponent 24 (save for connection by hinge 242) thereby providing accessto coffee basin 234 and passageway 238.

Upper component 226 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. Inthe arrangement shown, upper component 226 includes a main body 230 thathas an exterior surface that is approximately the same size and shape ofthe main body 330 of lower component 224, and container 212 such thatwhen the three components 212, 224, 226 are connected together theexterior surface is generally smooth and flat. Upper component 226 has abottom edge 244 that is generally flat and engages the upper edge 240 oflower component 224 when the two components are connected together.

Upper component 226 includes a pump 246 and a heating element 248positioned within the upper component 226. Pump 246 is any form of adevice that takes electric energy and converts it to mechanical movementand serves to move liquid from one position to another. Heating element248 is any form of a device that takes electric energy and heats aliquid. An upper straw 250 is connected to the inlet side of pump 246and heating element 248. A lower end of upper straw 250 protrudes adistance from the bottom edge 244 of upper component 226 and engages theupper end 233 of lower straw 232 of lower component 224. In this way,when upper component 226 is closed on lower component 224, upper straw250 and lower straw 232 connect together to provide a fluid path fromcontainer 212 to pump 246 and heating element 248. A drip straw 252 isconnected to the outlet end of pump 246 and heating element 248 andterminates in a drip nozzle 254 that is positioned above coffee basin234, such that liquid that passes through pump 246 and heating element248 is dispensed onto the coffee grinds held within coffee basin 234.

Upper component 226 also includes an On/Off switch 256 that iselectrically connected to pump 246 and heating element 248 whichselectively provides power to the electrical components of the system210. On/Off switch 256 is also connected to electrical socket 258.Electrical socket 258 is any form of a device which receives and holdsanother device, such as cord 260, while forming an electrical connectionthere with. In the arrangement shown, cord 260 has an adapter 262 whichis sized and shaped to engage and mate with electrical socket 258 on oneend, and a conventional plug 264 which is sized and shaped to engage aconventional socket on the opposite end. In this way, cord 260 andelectrical socket 258 are used to power system 210.

In an alternative arrangement, the system 210 includes an on-board powersource, such as a battery, a plurality of batteries, or a battery pack,or the like which is used to power the system. In this wireless batterypowered system, electrical socket 258 and cord 260 can still be used torecharge the power source.

Upper component 226 also includes a drinking port 266 that is alignedwith passageway 238 when upper component 226 is installed on lowercomponent 224. Drinking port 266 and passageway 238 connect to oneanother to allow coffee to pass from container 212 through lowercomponent 224 and upper component 226. Because, passageway 238 isintentionally sized to be large enough to allow milk and sugar to easilybe added to container without removing lower component 224, whereasdrinking port 266 of upper component 226 is smaller so as to only allowthe proper amount of coffee to be poured out of container 212, a step268 protrudes from bottom edge 244 of upper component 226. Step 268 issized and shaped and aligned to fit within and frictionally engagepassageway 238 of lower component 224. In this arrangement, when uppercomponent 226 is closed on lower component 224, step 268 fits within andengages the upper portion of passageway 238 thereby helping to hold thetwo components together. In one arrangement a flexible seal ispositioned around step 268 which helps to seal passageway 238 when uppercomponent 226 is closed onto the lower component 224 thereby preventingany leakage. In another arrangement, a snap-fit feature is present onthe step 268 and/or the passageway 238 such that when the uppercomponent 226 is closed on the lower component the snap-fit featuresengage one another thereby holding the two components together until anappropriate amount of force is applied to separate the two.

In one arrangement, a latch 270 is present on the upper component 226and a corresponding notch 272 is present on the lower component 224, orvice versa, which serves to hold the upper component 226 and lowercomponent 224 together when upper component 226 is closed on lowercomponent 224. In this arrangement, when upper component 226 is closed,a snap-fit feature, such as a barb 274 or edge, fits within a similarlysized and shaped notch 272.

To facilitate easier drinking, the upper edge of upper component 226includes a raised lip 276. Lip 276 is formed of any ergonomically designand serves to guide coffee towards a user's mouth when in use, whilesimultaneously helping to prevent spillage. Also positioned over theupper end of drinking port 266 is a sealing member 277. Sealing member277 is any device that closes and seals drinking port 266 from spillingwhen not in use. In one arrangement, sealing member 277 is a slidablepiece that slides over the upper end of drinking port 266 when not inuse (thereby preventing accidental spillage and also keeping thecontents of container 212 sanitary and temperature stable) and slidesaway from the upper end of drinking port 266 to allow a user to drinkthe contents of container 212.

The system 210 also includes a sensor 278, a microprocessor 280 and acontroller 282. Sensor 278 is any sensor that senses conditions of thesystem 210. In one arrangement, sensor 278 is a temperature sensor, suchas a thermometer or the like, however any other form of a sensor ishereby contemplated for use. Sensor 278 is electrically connected tomicroprocessor 280. Microprocessor 280 is any device which receiveselectronic information and processes it according to instructions storedin memory. Microprocessor 280 receives information from sensor 278 andprocesses this information. Microprocessor 280 is electrically connectedto controller 282. Controller 282 is any device which receivesinformation from one electronic component and uses that information tocontrol another electronic device. In one arrangement, microprocessor280 and controller 282 are combined into a single device. In onearrangement, sensor 278 senses the temperature of heating element 248,or the liquid within container 212, transmits this information tomicroprocessor 280 which processes this information. This processedinformation is passed to controller 282 which controls heating element248 and/or pump 46, so as to properly and precisely control brewing.

In Operation: A user fills container 212 with a desired amount of water.Next, the user screws lid 222 onto the open upper end 218 of container212 by meshing the threads of connecting features 220 with theconnecting member 228 of lower component 224. By doing so, straw 232 isinserted into the water a distance.

Next, the user places the desired amount of coffee grounds within thecoffee basin 234 of lower component 224. This can be by actually pouringcoffee grounds into coffee basin 234, or by placing a pouch of coffeegrounds in the coffee basin 234. At this time, or a later time, the usercan pour milk or sugar or other additives into the container throughpassageway 238.

Next the user closes upper component 226 onto lower component 224. Indoing so, the upper straw 250 aligns with the lower straw 232 and thedrip nozzle 254 is positioned above the coffee grounds in the coffeebasin 234, and the upper edge 240 of lower component 224 engages theflat bottom edge of upper component, and the step 228 fits within thepassageway 238 thereby sealing the passageway 238 and the narrowerdrinking port 266. Also, in the arrangement wherein a latch 270 andnotch 272 are present, when closed, the latch 270 engages the notch 272thereby holding the upper component 226 onto the lower component 224.

When the sealing member 277 closes the drinking port 266, the system isnow ready to travel. When the user arrives at their office or whereverthey desire a fresh cup of coffee, the user inserts plug 264 of cord 260into a conventional wall socket, or in another arrangement, a carsocket, USB port or any other suitable power source and inserts adapter262 into the electrical socket 58 of the upper component 226. Next, theuser powers on the system 10 by pressing the On/Off button 256 whichstarts the brewing process.

Brewing occurs by transmitting power to the heating element 248 and pump246. Heating element 248 warms to an operating temperature and pump 246sucks water from container 212 through lower straw 232 and upper straw242 and into heating element 248. The water passes through heatingelement 248 and out drip straw 252 and through drip nozzle 254 and ontocoffee grounds held within coffee basin 234. The heated water passesthrough coffee grounds and is held within coffee basin 234 until itpasses through nozzle 236 and back into container 212. This process isrepeated until the user turns off the power to the system, oralternatively until microprocessor 280 and/or controller 282 shuts poweroff to the system 210. While the system is brewing, the sensor 278senses the temperature and other variables of the system 210 and feedsthis information into microprocessor 280 and/or controller 282 whichadjusts the system 210 to provide optimum results.

Once the coffee is brewed, the user simply slides the sealing member 277away from the drinking port 266 and drinks a fresh brewed cup of coffee.

Alternative Embodiment: With reference to FIG. 9, an alternativearrangement is presented that is slightly modified from the embodimentpresented in FIGS. 7-8D. This alternative arrangement has a bottomcomponent 284 which is positioned below the container 212. Bottomcomponent 284 includes a drain 286 which fluidly connects to the bottomof container 212. Drain is fluidly connected to pump 246 which isfluidly connected to heating element 248. Heating element 248 fluidlyconnects to lower straw 232 which fluidly connect to upper straw 250.Upper straw 250 dispenses fluid onto the coffee grounds within thecoffee basin 234. The remaining components of the system 210 aresimilar, if not identical to the system described herein.

Another Alternative Arrangement: With reference to FIGS. 10-23 analternative arrangement is presented that is slightly modified from theembodiments presented in FIGS. 1-9. In this arrangement, a portablecoffee brewing system 310 is presented that includes a container 312, asleeve 314 positioned within the container 312, a heating element 316positioned between the sleeve 314 and the container 312, an electricalcomponents housing 318 connected to a lower end 320 of the container312, and a lid 322 connected to the upper end 324 of the container 312.

Container: Container 312 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is any form of a liquid holding vessel such as a cup, a mug,a travel mug, a thermal mug, or the like. In one arrangement, as isshown, container 312 includes a sidewall 28 that extends in a generallycircular manner from upper end 324 to lower end 320 and defines a hollowinterior 326 therein.

In the arrangement shown, the upper end 324 of container 312 includes anangled portion 328 that angles outward to an upper portion 330 that hasa larger diameter than the diameter of the portion of container 312below the angled portion 328. The angled portion 328 and larger diameterupper portion 330 provide additional space for the components of lid 322therein.

Container 312 also includes a plurality of vents 332 positioned at thelower end 320 of container 312. Vents 332 are configured to vent heatout of container 312 during operation of the device 310. Vents 332 alsoallow for the drainage of water or condensation that gets betweencontainer 312 and sleeve 314.

A hinge 334 is connected to the upper end 324 of upper portion 330 ofcontainer 312. Hinge 334 serves to pivotally connect lid 332 tocontainer 312. The upper end 324 of container 312 also includes a catch336 that is configured to receive latch 338 connected to lid 322 whenlid 322 is in a closed position.

Sleeve: Sleeve 314 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design andis configured to fit within container 312 and hold liquid/coffeetherein. In one arrangement, sleeve 314 is formed of a metallic materialsuch as aluminum, stainless steel or the like, whereas container 312 isformed of a plastic or composite material. In the arrangement shown,sleeve 314 is configured to fit within container 312 and generallyfollow the contours of container 312 with a space between the exteriorsurface of sleeve 314 and the interior surface of container 312. Morespecifically, like container 312, sleeve 314 has a generally cylindricalsidewall that extends from a lower end 320 to an upper end 324 andincludes an angled portion 328 that connects to upper portion 330 thathas a larger diameter than the portion of sleeve below the angledportion.

A lip 340 is connected to the upper end 324 of sleeve 314 and extendsoutward therefrom. Lip 340 connects to the upper end 324 of container312 and in one arrangement seals to container 312. Lip 340 helps toprevent liquid from getting between container 213 and sleeve 314. Lip340 also helps to index the position of sleeve 314 within container 312.That is, sleeve 314 is fully inserted within container 312 when lip 340engages the upper end 324 of container 312.

The lower end 320 of sleeve 314 includes a bottom wall 342 that closesthe lower end 320 of sleeve 314. Bottom wall 342 includes a drain 344that is fluidly connected to an inlet side of pump 346. Bottom wall 342also includes an output opening 348 that is fluidly connected to anoutput side of pump 346. In this way, when pump 346 is activated, fluidis sucked from the hollow interior 326 of sleeve 314/container 312through drain 344 and then is pumped out of output opening 348.

In one arrangement, sleeve 314 is removable from container 312 therebyallowing for easy cleaning of sleeve 314, such as by throwing the sleeve314 in the dishwasher. In another arrangement, sleeve 314 isnon-removable from container 312, thereby ensuring a proper and enduringseal is made between sleeve 314 and container 314 thereby preventing anyliquid from getting between sleeve 314 and container 312.

Heating Element: Heating element 316 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design. In the arrangement shown, heating element 316 ispositioned within the space between the interior surface of container312 and the exterior surface of sleeve 314. In the arrangement shown,heating element 316 is formed of a flexible pad that includes a heatingelement therein. In one arrangement, the pad material is formed ofsilicone, or a flexible silicone composite, or alternatively the padmaterial is formed of plastic or any other composite material.

In the arrangement shown, heating element 316 is wrapped around theexterior cylindrical surface of sleeve 314 between the lower edge ofangled portion 328 and the bottom wall 342. In one arrangement, tomaximize heat transfer to the sleeve 314 and the liquid contained withinsleeve 312, heating element 316 is adhered directly to the exteriorsurface of sleeve 312 using an adhesive. In an alternative arrangement,to maximize heat transfer to the sleeve 314 and the liquid containedwithin sleeve 314, the interior surface of heating element 316 is bondedto the exterior surface of sleeve 314 using a heat transfer compound, aheat transfer paste, a heat sink compound, a heat sink paste or anyother material that bonds and/or helps to transfer heat from one objectto another.

In one arrangement, after the heating element 316 is wrapped around thesleeve 314, thermal insulating material 350 is wrapped around theexterior surface of heating element 316. Thermal insulating material 350is formed of any material or device that helps to insulate the exteriorsurface of heating element 316, and thereby help to direct or focus theheat produced by heating element 316 toward sleeve 314 and away fromcontainer 312. In one arrangement, thermal insulating material 350 is athermally insulating tape, such as an aluminum tape, a metallic tape,fiberglass tape, a ceramic tape or any other type of tape that helps todirect and focus the heat produced by heating element 316 inward. In onearrangement, thermal insulating material 350 adheres to the exteriorsurface of heating element 316 and thereby helps to hold heating element314 firmly onto sleeve 314 thereby improving and maximizing the heattransfer into sleeve 314. By wrapping heating element 316 with tape,this also helps to maintain the dimensional size, shape and accuracy ofthe sleeve 314 with the heating element 316 positioned there around,which eases assembly of sleeve 314 into container 312.

Heating element 316 electrically connects to microprocessor 352 which,in operation, controls operation of heating element 316 which serves toheat the liquid within sleeve 312.

While in the arrangement shown in FIGS. 10-23 the heating element 316wraps around the sleeve 314, in an alternative arrangement the heatingelement 316 is positioned adjacent the bottom of sleeve 314.

In an alternative arrangement, heating element 316 is formed of what isknown as a thick film heating element also known as thick filmconduction heater. Thick film heating elements are formed of a thickfilm that includes a heating element therein that is connected to oradhered with a substrate film. The thick film heating element can beadhered or bonded directly to the exterior surface of sleeve 314, oralternatively the thick film heating element is printed directly ontothe exterior surface of sleeve 314. Thick film heating elements areknown for fast response and uniform heating as well as maximum heattransfer, thermal efficiency and temperature uniformity all while in athin package that provide maximum room for other components. Theyprovide maximum temperature response in a low profile package. Theyprovide ultra-fast temperature ramp and allows for quick cool down. Theyallow for uniform temperatures to be provided across the heater'ssurface area in addition they can be precisely controlled. The use of athick film heating element allows the space between the sleeve 314 andcontainer 312 to be a minimum. Also, the use of a thick film heatingelement allows the use of additional or thicker insulation around thethick film heating element and sleeve 314 thereby additionally improvingthermal efficiency. One manufacturer of these thick film heatingelements is Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company having an address of12001 Lackland Road St. Louis Missouri 63146.

Electrical Components Housing: Electrical components housing 318 isconnected to the lower end 320 of container 312 and housesmicroprocessor 352, pump 346, and transceiver 354. Electrical componentshousing 318 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In thearrangement shown, electrical components housing 318 is formed of agenerally cylindrical member having an upper portion 356 and a lowerportion 358.

In the arrangement shown, pump 346 is held within upper portion 356 ofelectrical components housing 318. In addition, sensor 360 is heldwithin the upper portion 356. Sensor 360 is any form of a device whichsenses operational characteristics of the system 310, such astemperature, or the like. Sensor 360 transmits the sensed information,such as temperature, to microprocessor 352, from this informationmicroprocessor 352 controls operation of the system 310.

A circuit board 362 is also held with electrical components housing 318.In the arrangement shown, circuit board 362 is held between the upperportion 356 and the lower portion 358. By spacing the circuit board 362a distance away from the heating element 316, this spacing tends toattenuate or reduce the heat received by the sensitive electricalcomponents of circuit board 362. In one arrangement, circuit board 362includes or is electrically connected to all of the electricalcomponents that control operation of system 310 including microprocessor352 and transceiver 354.

Microprocessor 352 is any device which receives information or signals,processes the information or signals and executes instructions stored inmemory. In this way, microprocessor 352 controls operation of the system310. Transceiver 354 is electrically connected to microprocessor 352.Transceiver 354 is any device that transmits and/or receives signalsthrough an antenna 364. Antenna 364 is any device which convertselectric power into radio waves, and vice versa. In this way, theconnection of transceiver 354 and antenna 364 allow for wireless controlof system 310, as is further described herein, by sending and receivingwireless control signals through transceiver 354 and antenna 364.

Electrical components housing 318 also includes a switch 366 therein.Switch 366 is any device which turns the power on or off to theelectrical components of system 310. Electrical components housing 318also includes a socket 368 that is configured to receive an electricalconnection to an external power source, such as by plugging the system10 into a USB port or a conventional wall plug.

Lid & Basket: Lid 322 is connected to the upper end 324 of container 312and sleeve 314. Lid 322 is formed of any suitable size shape and designand serves to close the upper end 324 of container 312 and sleeve 314.In the arrangement shown, lid 322 is hingedly connected to container 312by hinge 334 which allows lid 322 to rotate between an open position anda closed position. In a closed position, engagement between latch 338 oflid 322 and catch 336 of container 312 hold lid 322 in a closedposition.

Lid 322 includes a pour spout 370 therein that provides a fluidpassageway to the fluid held within sleeve 312. Lid 322 also includes acover 372 that is movable between an open position where access isprovided to pour spout 370 and a closed position where cover 372 closespour spout 370.

A basket 374 is positioned between lid 322 and container 312, and/or isheld between lid 322 and container 312. Basket 374 is formed of anysuitable size, shape and design and is configured to hold coffee groundstherein during the brewing process. In one arrangement, as is shown,basket 374 includes an opening 376 that is sized and shaped to receive acoffee grounds holding device 378. Coffee grounds holding device 378 isformed of any suitable size, shape and design, and is in one arrangementis a K-Cup made commercially popular by Keurig Green Mountain, which isheadquartered in Waterbury, Vt., however any other form of a coffeegrounds holding device is hereby contemplated for use with the system310.

Basket 374 includes a lip 380 positioned at its upper end that engagesor indexes to lip 340 of sleeve 312 such that when lip 380 of basket isin engagement with lip 340 of sleeve 314, basket 374 is fully insertedwithin container 312/sleeve 314. In this position, basket 374 is held inplace between the container 312 and sleeve 314 on its lower side and lid322 on its upper side when lid 322 is in a closed position over basket374.

Basket 374 includes a pour spout 382 therein that fluidly connects withthe hollow interior 326 of sleeve 314 and pour spout 370 of lid 322.Basket 374 also includes an upper tube 384 that fluidly connects to alower tube 386. Lower tube 386 removably connects at its lower end tooutput opening 348 in sleeve 314 and at its upper end to the lower endof upper tube 384 of basket 374. The upper end of upper rube 384 fluidlyconnects to upper punch 388 in lid 322. Upper punch 388 serves tofluidly connect to the upper end of upper tube 384 and also serves topunch a hole in the cover 390 of coffee grounds holding device 378 whenlid 322 is closed on basket 374 with coffee grounds holding device 378therein thereby providing a point of access for water to infiltrate intothe coffee grounds holding device 378.

Basket 374 also includes a lower punch 392 positioned adjacent thebottom end of opening 376 that serves to punch a hole in the lower endof coffee grounds holding device 378 when lid 322 is closed on basket374 with coffee grounds holding device 378 therein thereby providing apassageway for water to exit the coffee grounds holding device 378through drain 394 in the lower end of basket 374.

When lid 322 is open, the sharp point of upper punch 388 is exposed. Toprovide an additional layer of safety, lid 322 includes a rotatablepunch cover 396. When lid 322 is in an open position, punch cover 396rotates into place thereby covering the sharp end of upper punch 388.When lid 322 is closed, punch cover 396 rotates thereby exposing upperpunch 388 thereby allowing the sharp point of upper punch 388 topenetrate the cover 390 of coffee grounds holding device 378.

Basket 374 is removable from sleeve 314 and container 312 therebyfacilitating easy cleaning of basket 374. Removing basket 374 alsoallows for easy removal of lower tube 386 for cleaning purpose. Removingbasket 374 also allows for easy cleaning of the interior surface ofsleeve 314.

While the term “basket” is used herein, this is term and the device itis used to describe is similar to the holder or insert 24 presented inFIGS. 3 and 5, as well as being similar in function to the lowercomponent 224 of lid 22 presented in FIGS. 7-9 and the use of differingterminology should not distract from the similarities in function,purpose and design.

Display: In one arrangement, system 310 includes a display 398 which iselectrically connected with microprocessor 352. Display 398 is formed ofany suitable size, shape and design and is configured to displayinformation related to the system 10. In one arrangement, display ispositioned in the sidewall of electrical components housing 318, howeverit is hereby contemplated that display 398 may be positioned in anyportion of the system 10.

In one arrangement, as is shown, display 398 is a digital display thatis displays the status of the system, the temperature of the fluidwithin container 312, the amount of time the system 310 is set to brewfor, the temperature the system 310 is set to brew at, the amount ofbrewing time left, the time, the time at which brewing will start, theamount of time that must pass before brewing will start, or any otherinformation relevant to the system.

In one arrangement, microprocessor 352 and/or display 398 areelectrically connected to an alarm 400. Alarm 400 is any device whichindicates the state of system 310, such as when brewing is done, when adesired brewing temperature has been reached, when a desired drinkingtemperature has been reached, or any other information. Alarm 400 may bea speaker or other device that transmits a tone, noise or even spokenwords, or a visual device such as a light or LED. In one arrangement,when alarm 400 is a color-changing LED alarm 400 is, for example, bluewhen in a powered ready state, red when brewing and green when ready.

In one arrangement, the display 398 is an interactive display thatdisplays information about the system 310 as well as allows the user toset parameters such as:

-   -   The temperature at which brewing will start;    -   The amount of time that brewing will occur;    -   The time when brewing will occur;    -   Whether an alarm will issue when brewing is complete;    -   Whether an alarm will issue when the optimal consumption        temperature is reached;    -   What the alarm settings are;    -   Any other setting.

Application: In one arrangement, system 310 is controllable throughwireless control signals 402 sent and received between transceiver 354through antenna 364 and application 404 running an a handheld device,such as a cell phone, tablet, laptop or other computing device 406.

Application 404 is any computer program designed to control system 310,display information related to system 310 and help the user enjoy use ofsystem 310 through interaction with their cell phone or other computingdevice 406. In one arrangement, application 310 allows a user towirelessly interact with their system 310 either directly, with wirelesscontrol signals 402 being exchanged directly between computing device406 and transceiver 354/antenna 364, or through a wireless network 408,such as the internet. In doing so, the user may set the operatingparameter of the system 310 such as:

-   -   The temperature at which brewing will start;    -   The amount of time that brewing will occur;    -   The time when brewing will occur;    -   Whether an alarm will issue when brewing is complete;    -   Whether an alarm will issue when the optimal consumption        temperature is reached;    -   What the alarm settings are;    -   Whether music will play either through the computing device 406        or the alarm 400 when brewing is complete, and if so what music;    -   Whether music will play either through the computing device 406        or the alarm 400 when the optimal consumption temperature is        reached, and if so what music;    -   Any other setting.

Application 404 allows the user to control brewing of their coffee innever before provided ways, such as by precise temperature setting, brewtime setting and the like. In addition, application 404 allows the userto post to social media about their brewing experience. Application 404also allows the user to order supplies, like replacement parts, moreK-cups, coffee, or any other supply. Application 404 also allows fordirect marketing to the user through application 404.

As computing device 406 is connected to the internet, any amount ofinformation can be retrieved through the internet for use in theapplication. In addition, application 404 has access to the onboardmemory of computing device 406. As such, application 404 can retrievemusic to play through the computing device 406 and/or the audible alarm(speaker) 400 on the portable coffee brewing system 310 from the onboardmemory of the computing device or from the internet.

Portable coffee brewing system 310 and application 404/computing device406 communicate with one another using any form of a wirelesscommunication protocol or language. Examples include the use ofBluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave or any other open source or proprietarylanguage.

In Operation: A user using the system 310 opens the lid 322 which pivotsupon hinge 334 thereby providing access to the basket 374. Next, theuser removes the basket 743 and lower tube 386. Next the user fills thehollow interior 326 with the desired amount of water. The user theninserts the lower end of lower tube 386 into the output opening 348 inthe bottom wall 342 of sleeve 314. Next, the user replaces the basket374 in the upper end of the sleeve 314 and container 312. When insertingthe basket 374 into container 312/sleeve 314, care is taken to ensurethat the basket 374 is properly aligned with the upper end of lower tube386 in alignment with and fluid communication with the lower end ofupper tube 384. Once in the position, with the lip 380 of basket 374 inengagement with the lip 340 of sleeve 314/container 312 and upper rube384 in alignment with and communication with lower tube 386, basket 374is fully inserted within container 312.

Once basket 374 is inserted into container 312, coffee grounds holdingdevice 378 (such as a K-Cup) is inserted within the opening 376 inbasket 374. Next, the lid 322 is closed by pressing down on the forwardend of the lid 322 thereby causing the lid 322 to rotate upon hinge 334until the lower edge 408 of lid 322 seals with the upper edge ofcontainer 312/sleeve 314 and the latch 338 and catch 336 are in holdingengagement with one another. Upon closing of lid 322, the lower punch392 penetrates the bottom wall 410 of coffee grounds holding device 378while the upper punch 388 penetrates the cover 372 of the coffee groundsholding device 378 thereby providing an entry point and exit point forwater into and out of the coffee grounds holding device 378.

Now the system 310 is fully assembled and ready for transport and/oruse. Once the user is ready to brew coffee, the user plugs the system310 into a power source through plug 368 and then the user turns thebrewing function on by use of switch 366. In doing so, unless modifiedby the user, as is further described herein, the system 310 will operateaccording to the factory settings.

That is, once activated, microprocessor 352 activates heating element316. This cause energy to course through the filament embedded withinthe flexible silicone pad thereby heating the sleeve 314 and the waterwithin sleeve 314. As this is occurring the sensor 360 senses the watertemperature and transmits this information to microprocessor 352. Oncemicroprocessor 352 detects that the pre-set brewing temperature has beenreached (such as for example between 198° F. and 200° F.) microprocessor352 activates pump 346.

When pump 346 is activated, pump 346 sucks water out of the hollowinterior 326 of through drain 344 and then pumps the water out outputopening 348, up lower tube 386, up upper tube 348, through upper punch388, or alternatively through other piping within lid 322, through thecoffee grounds held within coffee grounds holding device 378, and outthe opening in the bottom of coffee grounds holding device 378 which isformed by lower punch 392 and out drain 394. This liquid then drainsback into the hollow interior 326 and the process is repeated until pump346 is deactivated. The flow of liquid/coffee follows Arrow A shown inFIG. 22.

In one arrangement, that includes an alarm 400 that is a light or LED,during the brewing process, the alarm 400 indicates that brewing isin-process, such as illuminating a first color such as red, yellow, orblue, and when the brewing process is complete the alarm 400 illuminatesa second color, such as green or purple. In the arrangement wherein aconsumption temperature is also set, the alarm 400 indicates that thepreferred consumption temperature has been reach by illuminating a thirdcolor, such as white, when the temperature of the liquid drops below apredetermined consumption temperature informing the user that the coffeeis ready to drink. In this way, the user is visually made aware of thestatus of the system 10.

Similarly, In one arrangement, that includes an alarm 400 that is aspeaker, when the brewing process begins an alarm 400 is issued thatindicates that brewing started, such as a first tone or noise, and whenthe brewing process is complete the alarm 400 issues a second tone ornoise. In the arrangement wherein a consumption temperature is also set,the alarm 400 indicates that the preferred consumption temperature hasbeen reach by issuing a third tone or noise when the temperature of theliquid drops below a predetermined consumption temperature informing theuser that the coffee is ready to drink. In this way, the user is audiblymade aware of the status of the system 10.

Similarly, the information about the system 310 is displayed on display398, such as the current status of the system 310, such as brewing,waiting, ready, etc. In addition, other information is also visible ondisplay 398, such as current liquid temperature, time, time untilbrewing begins, time until brewing completes, etc.

After the coffee is brewed, the user slides the cover 372 rearwardthereby exposing the pour spout 370 and the user drinks the coffee fromhollow interior 326.

Once empty, the user cleans the system by opening lid 322 by pivoting iton hinge 334 thereby exposing the basket 374 and coffee grounds holdingdevice 378 which are both removed. In addition, the lower tube 386 isalso removed, and in the arrangement with a removable sleeve 314, thesleeve 314 is removed as well. The coffee grounds holding device 378 isdiscarded. The lower tube 386 and sleeve 314 and the basket 374 can bewashed, such as by placing them in a dishwasher. Once clean, the sleeve314, lower tube 386, and basket 374 are reinserted into the container312 and the system 310 is ready to be used again.

When an interactive display 398 is present, the user may modify anysetting using the display 398, such as the brewing temperature, thepreferred consumption temperature, when the brewing is to begin (such asat a certain time), how long brewing should last, among any othersetting.

Similarly, when using application 404, the user may modify any settingusing the application 404, such as the brewing temperature, thepreferred consumption temperature, when the brewing is to begin (such asat a certain time), how long brewing should last, among any othersetting. In addition, the user may post information to social mediaregarding their brewing experience through application 404, in additionthey may order replacement parts or supplies, such as additional coffeeor replacement coffee ground holding devices 378 (such as K-cups). Whenthe user modifies a setting using application 404, a wireless controlsignal 402 is transmitted either over the air and directly to antenna364, or through electronic network 408, such as the internet or a localnetwork. Control signal 402 is received by antenna 364 which transmitsthe control single 402 to transceiver 354. Transceiver 354 receives thecontrol signal 402, interprets it, and transmits it to microprocessor352. Microprocessor 352 acts on the instructions received throughcontrol signal 402 to modify its operation accordingly.

Note: The use of the term K-Cup is only by way of example, and any formof a coffee grounds holding device manufactured by any maker is herebycontemplated for use with the system 310 and can be used by modifyingthe shape of basket 374 accordingly.

Batteries: While it is described herein to attach system 310 to anexternal battery source such as line power through a USB plug orconventional wall outlet, it is hereby contemplated to include anon-board power source, such as a battery or plurality of batteries, orbattery pack within container 312 and/or electrical components housing318. This battery or batteries provide the power for operation of thesystem as is described herein. This battery or batteries are charged byplugging into an external power source through plug 368.

Separator: In one arrangement, system 10 includes a separator 420.Separator 420 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to separate the brewed coffee from the un-brewed water. Inone arrangement, separator 420 is formed of a rigid or flexible membranethat is inserted within the hollow interior 36 of container 12 after thehollow interior 36 is filled with water. In this way, separator 420floats on top of the water. When the system 10 is activated, and brewingis initiated, water is sucked out of the hollow interior 36 below theseparator 420 and brewed coffee is injected or poured back into thehollow interior 36 on top of separator 420. In doing so, the separator420 moves vertically within the hollow interior 36 of container 12 andfloats on the diminishing level of un-brewed water below the separator420 as brewed coffee is poured on top of the separator 420.

The brewing process is complete when the separator 420 reaches orengages the bottom wall 34 of hollow interior 36. In this position, allof the un-brewed water has been sucked out of the hollow interior 36 ofthe container 12 below separator 420 and has been replaced as coffee ontop of the separator 420.

To ensure a proper seal between sidewall 28 of container 12 and theseparator 420, and to ensure the water and brewed coffee aresufficiently separated, separator 420 has approximately the same sizeand shape as the hollow interior 36 and fits within hollow interior 36with close and tight tolerances thereby separating the coffee and waterwhile still allowing for vertical movement of separator 420 withinhollow interior 36. Care is taken to ensure the dimensions andconfiguration properly separates the water from the coffee whileallowing for proper and free vertical movement of separator 420—althoughsome leakage is inevitable. In the arrangement shown, as one example,separator 420 includes a bottom wall 422 that extends across the hollowinterior 36 and connects to a sidewall 424 that engages and seals withsidewall 28 of container 12. In one arrangement, sidewall 424 ofseparator 420 includes one or more seals, such as rubber gaskets,0-rings or the like, that engage sidewall 28 and improve sealing.

Separator 420 is easily removed from hollow interior 36 for cleaningpurposes. The use of separator 420 helps to keep the internal componentsof system 10 clean by only running clean water through these componentsof the system 10.

Alternative Arrangement: In an alternative arrangement, with referenceto FIGS. 24-40 a portable coffee brewing system 510 is presented. Thisportable coffee brewing device system 510 is similar to the otherembodiments presented herein and therefore the teaching presented hereinwith reference to other embodiments applies to the embodiment of FIGS.24-40 unless specifically specified otherwise (including the teachingrelated to all of the electrical components and functionality describedherein, including microprocessor 352, transceiver 354, sensor 360,circuit board 362, antenna 364, switch 366, plug 368, display 398, alarm400, wireless control 402, application 404, computing device 406, andthe like components and functionality). In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, portable coffee brewing system 510 includes the components orfeatures of: a container 512 having an upper end 514, a lower end 516and a bottom wall 518, a first chamber 520, a second chamber 522, a hotwater tube assembly 524 having a lower section 526, an upper section 528and a pivot section 530, a first nipple 532, a second nipple 534, a lid536 having main body 538, a lip 540, a collar 542, a first cover 544connected by a first hinge 546 and a second cover 548 connected by asecond hinge 550, a pour spout 552, and a basket 554, a heating element556, a pump 558, an electrical socket 560, a vent 562 and a button 564,a coffee grounds holding device 26 having a sidewall 28 and a covering110 that holds an amount of coffee grounds 114, among other componentsand features as is described herein.

Container: Portable coffee brewing system 510 includes a container 512.Container 512 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to house and hold the other components of the system 510. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, container 512 has an exteriorsurface that forms a generally cylindrical sidewall that extends from anupper end 514 to a lower end 516. Lower end 516 connects to a bottomwall 518 that encloses the lower end 516 of container 512. In this way,container 512 forms a hollow interior with an open upper end 514 that isconfigured to receive and hold the components of the system 510. In thearrangement shown, as one example, container 512 is formed of two partsthat connect together along a seam in a clamshell-type arrangement.However, it is hereby contemplated that container 512 may be formed ofany number of parts such as a single unitary part, two, three, four ormore.

First Chamber: Portable coffee brewing system 510 includes a firstchamber 520. First chamber 520 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to receive and hold water to be used in thebrewing process. In the arrangement shown, as one example, first chamber520 has a generally cylindrical sidewall 266 that connects to a bottomwall 268 positioned at its lower end and is enclosed by an upper wall270 at its upper end. In this way, first chamber 520 forms a hollow,enclosed, interior that holds water prior to brewing. First chamber 520is positioned at or near the lower end of container 512 just abovebottom wall 518.

Second Chamber: Portable coffee brewing system 510 includes a secondchamber 522. Second chamber 522 is formed of any suitable size, shapeand design and is configured to receive and hold water, or morespecifically brewed coffee, tea or other beverage, after the brewingprocess. In the arrangement shown, as one example, second chamber 522has a generally cylindrical sidewall 272 that connects to a bottom wall274 positioned at its lower end. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the upper end of second chamber 522 is open and uncovered,however in other arrangements second chamber 522 may include a cover.Second chamber 522 is positioned above first chamber 520 and below lid536.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, heating element 556 isoperably connected to first chamber 520. Heating element 556 is formedof any electrically powered element that is capable of heating water forthe brewing process, as is described herein. In the arrangement shown,as one example, heating element 556 is positioned below the bottom wall568 of first chamber 520 and includes a coil member that extends upwardand into the hollow interior of first chamber 520, however any otherarrangement is hereby contemplated for use.

Also, in the arrangement shown, as one example, pump 558 is operablyconnected to first chamber 520 and is configured to facilitate movementof water from first chamber 520 into second chamber 522 during a brewingprocess. In one arrangement, pump 558 is an air pump that is configuredto pressurize first chamber 520 so as to facilitate movement of waterfrom first chamber 520 to second chamber 522. However, any other form ofa pump is hereby contemplated for use, such as a water pump or the like.

In the arrangement wherein pump 558 is an air pump, pump 558 isconnected to vent 562 so as to facilitate inflow of air into pump 558 soas to pressurize first chamber 520. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, vent 562 is an opening in the sidewall of container 512. Inalternative arrangements, pump 558 is vented in any other manner so asto provide airflow into pump 558. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, pump 558 is positioned above first chamber 520, above upperwall 570, and facilitates airflow into first chamber 520 through anopening connected to the output of pump 558. Care is taken to facilitatepressurization and proper flow of water into and out of first chamber520 by properly sealing first chamber 520 as well as using properventilation as well as directional valves, as is further describedherein so as to facilitate the filling of first chamber 520 as well asthe transfer of water from first chamber 520 to second chamber 522through hot water tube assembly 524.

Hot Water Tube Assembly: Portable coffee brewing system 510 includes ahot water tube assembly 524. Hot water tube assembly 524 is formed ofany suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate thetransfer of water from the first chamber 520 to the second chamber 522during the brewing process. In the arrangement shown, as one example,hot water tube assembly 524 is formed of a hollow tube that is formed ofa plurality of parts, including a lower section 526, an upper section528 and a pivot section 520.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lower section 526 extends intofirst chamber 520 and extends from a lower end, which is positioned justabove the upper interior surface of bottom wall 568 of first chamber520, upward through upper wall 570, past pump 558 and connects at itsupper end to the lower end of upper section 528. Upper section 528connects at its lower end to the upper end of lower section 526 andconnects at its upper end to pivot section 530. The connection of uppersection 528 to pivot section 530 includes a hinge that facilitateshinged movement of pivot section 530 as the first cover 544 is openedand closed, as is described herein. The end of pivot section 530,opposite upper section 528, is fluidly connected to first nipple 532. Inthis arrangement, when coffee grounds holding device 26 is in placewithin basket 554 of lid 540 and the first cover 544 is closed, firstnipple 532 penetrates the covering 110 of coffee grounds holding device26 thereby forming a fluid passageway into coffee grounds holding device26. Similarly, when coffee grounds holding device 26 is in place withinbasket 554 of lid 540 and the first cover 544 is closed, second nipple534 penetrates the bottom wall of coffee grounds holding device 26thereby forming a fluid passageway out of coffee grounds holding device26.

That is, during use, when first chamber 520 is filled with water and thebrewing process is initiated, heating element 556 is powered therebyheating the water held within first chamber 520 to a desiredtemperature. Once the desired temperature is achieved, as is sensed by asensor, as is described herein, pump 558 is activated. Once activated,pump 558 pulls air through vent 562 and pushes the air into firstchamber 520. As first chamber 520 is sealed, air inflow into firstchamber 520 pressurizes the first chamber 520. This pressurizationcauses water held within the first chamber 520 up the lower section 526of hot water tube assembly 524, through the upper section 526 of hotwater tube assembly 524, through the joint connecting upper section 528and pivot section 530, through the pivot section 530, through firstnipple and into the coffee grounds holding device 26. This heated waterpasses through the coffee grounds holding device 26 and drains throughthe second nipple 534 and drains into the second chamber 522 where it isheld for drinking.

The formation of hot water tube assembly 524 out of a number of parts,which in the example shown, is formed of three components, lower section526, upper section 528 and pivot section 530, allows for portions of thehot water tube assembly 524 to be non-removable in nature, orpermanently affixed, whereas other portions are removable in nature,such as for cleaning and replacement purposes. In one arrangement, lowersection 526 is non-removable or permanently affixed so as to facilitateproper sealing of first chamber whereas upper section 528 and pivotsection 530 are removable for cleaning and replacement purposes. Howeverany number of parts is hereby contemplated for use such as one, two,three, four or more parts.

Similarly in one arrangement, as is shown, first chamber 520 isnon-removable in nature, whereas second chamber 522 is removable innature so as to facilitate cleaning and replacement of the secondchamber 522. In one arrangement, as is shown, container 512 includes adivider 576. Divider 576 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to separate container 512 into an upper portionand a lower portion. In the arrangement shown, as one example, divider576 is a flat and generally horizontally extending wall of the clamshellsections of container 512 such that when the two sections of container512 are joined a sealed compartment is positioned below divider 576whereas an compartment that is open to the open upper end 514 ofcontainer 512 is positioned above divider 576. In this arrangement,some, most or all of the electrical components are held within thesealed section of container 512 below divider 576, including heatingelement 556, pump 558 and the other electrical components of system 510.Also held within this sealed lower portion of container 512 is firstchamber 520, which itself is sealed. Having the lower portion ofcontainer 512 being sealed provides protection to the electricalcomponents and other components held within this section of thecontainer 512.

Lid: Portable coffee brewing system 510 includes a lid 536. Lid 536 isformed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to closethe upper end 514 of container 512 as well as to facilitate drinking outof the portable coffee brewing system 510 as well as facilitate theinsertion and removal of a coffee grounds holding device 26. In thearrangement shown, as one example, lid 536 includes a main body 538.Main body 538 has an exterior sidewall that is similarly sized andshaped to the exterior sidewall of container 512 and includes a lip 540positioned at its lower end. Lip 540 positioned at the lower end of mainbody 538 of lid 536 is configured to connect to and engage the upper end514 of container 512, as well as connect to and engage an upper edge 578of second chamber 522. In one arrangement a sealing member, such as anO-ring, a gasket, a seal or like sealing component, is positionedbetween the lower edge of lip 540 and the upper edge of 578 of secondchamber 522 and or the upper end 514 of container 512 thereby sealingthis connection.

In the arrangement shown, lip 540 extends outward a distance from thedownwardly extending sidewall of the main body 538 of lid 536 therebyforming a shoulder having a larger diameter than the diameter of theexterior sidewall of lid 536. This outward extension serves as a stopsurface that is configured to receive and engage a portion of collar542. Collar 542 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to engage and couple the lower edge of lid 536 to the upperend 514 of container 512. In the arrangement shown, collar 542 is acylindrical member that fits around the lower end of lid 536 and stopsby engagement of lip 540 while having a portion of collar 542 extendpast and downward from lip 540. The interior surface of collar 542 thatextends below lip 540 of lid 536 includes threads that engages threadsin the exterior surface of the upper end 514 of container 512. In thisway, collar 542 selectively connects lid 536 to container 512 byrotating collar 542 in a first direction, and collar 542 selectivelydisconnects lid 536 from container 512 by rotating collar 542 in asecond direction opposite the first direction. In the arrangement shown,as one example, collar 542 is formed of an upper section 580, thatengages and remains stationary with lid 536 and lip 540 and a lowersection 582 includes threads on its interior surface that engages theupper end 514 of container 512 and rotates with respect to lid 536 andlip 540.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lid 536 includes a first cover544 connected to lid 536 by first hinge 546. First cover 544 is formedof any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to move betweenan open position and a closed position. In an open position, first cover544 allows insertion and removal of coffee grounds holding device 26into container 512 and/or lid 536. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, first cover 544 covers basket 554 which is sized and shaped toreceive and hold coffee grounds holding device 26 therein. Also, in thearrangement shown, as one example, pivot section 530 of hot water tubeassembly 524 is connected to the lower surface of first cover 544 andmoves with first cover 544 such that when first cover 544 is closed,first nipple 532, which is connected to the end of pivot section 530,penetrates the covering 110 of coffee grounds holding device 26 therebyforming an entry point into the coffee grounds holding device 26.Similarly as the first cover 544 is closed, the downward force appliedto coffee grounds holding device 26 positioned below first cover 544causes downward pressure onto coffee grounds holding device 26 therebycausing second nipple 534 to penetrate the lower wall of coffee groundsholding device 26 thereby forming an exit point out of coffee groundsholding device 26.

Basket 554 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to receive and hold coffee grounds holding device 26. In thearrangement shown, as one example, basket 554 is formed within lid 536and under first cover 544. However, in other arrangements, basket 554 isa removable member and/or a separate component that is held within lid536 and/or within container 512. In the arrangement shown, basket 554includes a generally cylindrical depression that is sized and shaped toreceive coffee grounds holding device 26 therein with close and tighttolerances and includes a second nipple 534 positioned at its lower endthat is configured to penetrate coffee grounds holding device 26 whenfirst cover 544 is closed thereby providing a fluid passageway out ofcoffee grounds holding device 26 and into second chamber 522.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lid 540 also includes a fillopening 584. Fill opening 584 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to facilitate filling portable coffee brewingsystem 510 with fresh water before brewing. In the arrangement shown,fill opening 584 is positioned between basket 554 and first hinge 546and connects to funnel 586. Funnell 586 is includes a fill tube 588 thatfacilitates transfer water from funnel 586 and into first chamber 520.In one arrangement, fill tube 588 includes a valve 590 that facilitatesflow of water into first chamber 520 but prevents the flow of water orair out of first chamber 520 so as to facilitate pressurization of firstchamber 520 by pump 558. In one arrangement, first chamber 520 includesa vent that facilitates the passage of air out of first chamber 520during a filling process. In the arrangement shown, fill tube 588 andfunnel 586 fit within a recess 592 in the sidewall 572 of second chamber522 which provides egress for these components. In one arrangement, whenfirst cover 544 is closed, first cover 544 seals the upper end of basket554 and/or fill opening 584, so as to prevent leaking.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lid 540 also includes a pourspout 552. Pour spout 552 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to facilitate pouring and/or drinking of coffeefrom the coffee brewing system 510. More specifically, pour spout 552provides a pathway for brewed coffee held within the second chamber 522to pass out of container 512. In the arrangement shown, as one example,pour spout 552 is positioned on the front side of lid 536, oppositefirst hinge 546. Also, in the arrangement shown, the upper end of pourspout 552 is covered by second cover 548 which is connected to lid 536by second hinge 550. In an open position, second cover 548 providesaccess to pour spout 552 whereas in a closed position second cover 548seals the upper end of pour spout 552 to prevent leaking.

Portable coffee brewing system 10 also includes button 564 that is usedto control operation of the system 10. Portable coffee brewing system 10also includes an electrical socket 562 that is used to electricallyconnect portable coffee brewing system 10 to an external power source.Alternatively, and/or in addition, portable coffee brewing system 10 mayinclude an on-board power source, such as one or more batteries.

In Operation: When using portable coffee brewing system 510, the useropens first cover 544 thereby exposing basket 554 as well fill opening584. The user fills the portable coffee brewing system 510 by pouringwater into fill opening 584. This water is funneled by gravity throughfunnel 586 and down fill tube 588 and into first chamber 520. As waterfills first chamber 520, air is vented out of first chamber 520. Withfirst cover 544 open, a coffee grounds holding device 26 is insertedwithin basket 554. Once coffee grounds holding device 26 is insertedwithin basket 554 and the first chamber 520 filled to the desired level,the first cover 544 is closed. As first cover 544 is closed, first cover544 rotates upon first hinge 546 until first cover 544 fully closes, andlatches or snaps closed. In a fully closed position, first cover 544seals fill opening 584 and/or basket 554. Also, as first cover 544 isclosed, first cover 544 forces first nipple 532 to penetrate covering110 of coffee grounds holding device 26 while second nipple 534penetrates the bottom of coffee grounds holding device 26.

In this closed position, portable coffee brewing system 510 may betransported in a pre-brewed state. Water held within the first chamber520 is held in place and does not leak as first chamber 520 is sealed.In addition, first cover 544 seals the upper end of basket 554 and/orfill opening 584, and second cover 548 seals pour spout 552. As such,portable coffee brewing system 510 maybe transported in a pre-brewedstate without fear of leaking.

Once the user gets to their desired location, and/or the time is right,the user plugs in the portable coffee brewing system 510, or in a system510 that is battery powered no plugging in is required. Next, the useractivates the system 510 by pressing button 564. Upon activation,heating element 556 heats water held within first chamber 520. Oncewater within first chamber 520 heats to the desired temperature, pump558 is activated. When pump 558 is activated, pump 558 sucks air throughvent 562, or through another vent or opening and pushes this air intofirst chamber 520. As first chamber 520 is sealed, as pump 558 pushesair into first chamber 520, first chamber 520 pressurizes. As firstchamber 520 pressurizes, heated water is forced up the hot water tubeassembly 524. More specifically, hot water enters the open lower end oflower section 526 of hot water tube assembly 524 which is positionedjust above the bottom wall 568 of first chamber 520. This water thenpasses up through the lower section 526 and out of first chamber 520,through the intersection joining the lower section 526 to the uppersection 528. Next the water passes through the joint joining the uppersection 528 to the pivot section 530. Next the water passes through thepivot section 530, through first nipple 532 which penetrates covering110 and into the hollow interior of coffee grounds holding device 26.This water percolates through the coffee grounds held within the coffeegrounds holding device 26 and out the second nipple 534. As the water,which is now coffee, drains out of the coffee grounds holding device 26through second nipple 534 it moves by the force of gravity and iscaptured by the open hollow interior of second chamber 522. This processcontinues until all water in first chamber 520 transitions through thecoffee grounds holding device 26 and into second chamber 520. Onebenefit of this system 510 and the use of air to pressurize firstchamber 520 is that once all of the water passes through first chamber520 the pressurized air has a tendency to force the water through thecoffee grounds holding device 26 thereby preventing the last bit ofwater from lingering in the coffee grounds holding device 26 and hotwater tube assembly 524, which can occur if a water pump is used insteadof an air pump. That is, the use of pressurized air helps to completethe brewing process in a more efficient and thorough and cleaner mannerthat purges the remaining water from the system 510.

After brewing has completed, when the user is ready to drink coffee,tea, or whatever else was brewed, the user simply opens second cover548, which pivots on second hinge 550, thereby exposing pour spout 552.Next, the user tips back the portable coffee brewing system 510 anddrinks from the pour spout 552.

The user may remove and replace the coffee grounds holding device 26 bysimply opening the first cover 554 and refill the first chamber 520 bypouring water into the fill opening 584. The user may also clean theportable coffee brewing system 510 by rotating the lower section 582 ofcollar 542 thereby releasing the lid 536 from the upper end 514 ofcontainer 512. In one arrangement, when lid 536 is removed, this removesthe upper section 528 and/or the pivot section 530 of hot water tubeassembly 524, which separate at the intersection between the lowersection 526 and the upper section 528, thereby allowing these componentsto be cleaned and/or replaced. Once lid 536 is removed, this exposessecond chamber 522 which can be removed, cleaned and replaced.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, even when lid 536 is removedand second chamber 522 is removed, the divider 576 of container 512maintains in place and keeps the electronic components (such as heatingelement 556 and pump 558 as well as all the other electronic components)as well as first chamber 520 sealed and protected and in place withinthe lower portion of container 512. In an alternative arrangement, afirst chamber 520 is also removable so as to facilitate cleaning andreplacement.

The portable coffee brewing system 510 may be assembled in the oppositemanner. That is, the second chamber 522 is dropped into the upper openend of container 512. Next, with the second chamber 522 in place andresting upon the upper surface of divider 576, lid 536 is installed byaligning the lower end of lid 536 with the upper end 514 of container512 and tightening collar 542 in place.

In this way, a new, useful, an non-obvious portable coffee brewingsystem 510 is presented.

Alternative Arrangement:

System:

In an alternative arrangement, with reference to FIGS. 41-51, a portablecoffee brewing system (system 610) is presented that is configured to beused for cold brewing by recirculating fluid through coffee grounds overan extended period of time. This arrangement, is similar to thatpreviously presented and therefore this arrangement incorporates all ofthe teaching presented herein in prior embodiments unless specificallystated otherwise. In the arrangement shown, as one example, cold brewingdoes not require a heating element, which simplifies the design of thesystem 610 in some ways, while cold brewing complicates the design inother ways. In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 610includes, among other components, a top housing 612, a pump 636, a tube638, a basket housing 650, a punch 666, a container 680, a basket 694, acoffee grounds holding device 710, and a bottom housing 724.

Top Housing/Housing:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, portable coffee brewingsystem, system 610, is used in association with a top housing 612. Tophousing 612 may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to form the upper portion of system 610. In other words, tophousing 612 is configured to hold various components of system 610within the confines a housing.

Top housing 612 also includes an exterior wall 618 which forms a hollowinterior 620 of the top housing 612. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, exterior wall 618 extends in a generally circular manner fromthe top side 614 to a bottom side 616.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the hollow interior 620 of tophousing 612, is configured to house various components of system 610. Inthis arrangement, shown as one example, top housing 612 connects, housesand/or holds a microprocessor 626, a pump 636, a tube 638, a socket 644,and a basket housing 650, among other components, as are furtherdescribed herein. Additionally, on the exterior wall of top housing 612,an On/Off button 624 and an indicator 632 feature can be found. Thesefeatures are further described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, top housing 612 includes a topside 614 and a bottom side 616 which extend in approximate parallelspaced relation to one another. Top side 614 is a generally flatsurface. In the arrangement shown, as one example, top side 614 formsthe enclosure surface of the upper side of top housing 612. In thearrangement shown, as one example, bottom side 616 forms the enclosuresurface of the lower side of top housing 612. Bottom side 616 definesthe bottom of the hollow interior 620 formed by the exterior wall 618 oftop housing 612. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom side616 is formed of a generally flat surface with an opening therein. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, bottom side 616 includes a largecircular opening formed to receive basket housing 650; basket housing650 is further described herein. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, top housing 612 also includes a lip 622. Lip 622 is formed ofany suitable size, shape and design and is configured to attach lowerportion of system 610 to a container 680. In the arrangement shown, asone example, lip 622 extends outward, and in perpendicular relation,from the exterior wall 618. In the arrangement shown, as one example,lip 622 is a generally circular extension that extends outward inparallel relation to bottom side 616.

Lip 22 is configured to provide a surface to support top housing 612 andother components while resting on the rim of a container 680.Additionally, lip provides connecting features which allow the tophousing to be connected to the bottom housing 694. In the arrangementshown, as one example, lip 622 of top housing 612 is configured toreceive lip 734 of bottom housing 724 in close and tight tolerances. Thelip 622 of top housing 612 and the lip 734 of bottom housing 724 fittogether in such close and tight tolerances, or by other connectingmethods or means, so as to prevent leakage, spillage, or debris fromescaping or entering the hollow interior of the portable coffee brewingsystem (system 610).

Bottom Housing:

In the arrangement shown, system 610 is used in association with abottom housing 724. Bottom housing 724 may be formed of any suitablesize, shape and design and is configured to enclose the lower end ofsystem 610 and connecting and/or interlocking in close and tighttolerances with top housing 612. In other words, bottom housing 724 isconfigured to cap those components which extend downward from the bottomof top housing 612. Said yet another way, bottom housing 724 isconfigured to form an enclosure for the lower portion of system 610. Inthe arrangement shown, as one example, bottom housing 724 forms acomplete and sealed enclosure whenever the system 610 is not in use,being transported, stored, or the like. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, bottom housing 724 is configured to be detached and reattachedto top housing 612 as desired.

In an alternative embodiment, bottom housing 724 can also be a container680. In this arrangement, the system may or may not be sealed. Acontainer 680 may take many forms, including a simple coffee cup, a BallJar, a travel mug, or any other form of a container which the tophousing 612 could rest upon. Container 680 is further described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom housing 724 is formedof a top side 726 and a bottom side 728 which extend in approximateparallel space relation to one another. Bottom side 728 is formed of agenerally flat surface which enables system 610 to be placed on a flatsurface such as a desk, countertop or table.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom housing 724 alsoincludes an exterior wall 730 which forms the hollow interior 732 of thebottom housing 724. In the arrangement shown, as one example, exteriorwall 730 extends in a generally circular manner from the bottom side 728to the top side 726, adjacent a lip 734.

In this arrangement, as is shown, the top side 726 of the bottom housing724 is a generally flat surface with an opening therein that is capableof receiving components or parts of components from the top housing 612.Lip 734 of the bottom housing 724 is configured to mirror the lip 622 ofthe top housing 612 so the lip 734 can matingly pair with top housing612. In an alternative, the lip 734 may be formed to aid in consumptionof any fluid 690 within bottom housing 724, in the event the bottomhousing 724 is used as a drinking container.

Bottom housing 724 may connect to top housing 612 by any manner, methodor means. That is, bottom housing 724 may connect to top housing 612 byfriction fit, wherein the upper end of bottom housing 724 overlaps andfrictionally engages a portion of top housing 612, such as the exteriorwall 658 of basket housing 650, or by any other portions of the bottomhousing 724 and top housing 612 frictionally engaging one another.Bottom housing 724 may connect to top housing 612 by features such asdetents, snap features, hooks, loops, elastic members, or by any otherfeature. Bottom housing 724 may connect to top housing 612 by magneticengagement by one or both of the components having a magnet that engagesa magnet or magnetic material of the other component. Bottom housing 724may connect to top housing 612 by a threaded engagement. Any othermanner, method or means of connecting the two components is herebycontemplated for use.

Container:

Portable coffee brewing device system 610 is used in association with acontainer 680. Container 680 is formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to house and hold the fluid 690 before, duringand after brewing as well as support top housing 612 during brewing.Additionally, container 680 is configured to operably connect to the tophousing 612. In the arrangement shown, as one example, container 680 hasan exterior surface 682 that forms a generally cylindrical sidewall thatextends from an open upper end 688 to a bottom end 686. Bottom end 686and exterior surface 682 form a hollow interior 684. In this way,container 680 is configured to receive and hold the fluid 690.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, container 680 holds the fluid690 that has not been altered by the system 610. Alternatively,container 680 may hold fluid 690 which has been altered by the system610. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the fluid 690 of thesystem 610 is recirculated through the system 610 continuously so thatno additional containers are needed. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, container 680 is formed of a single piece. However, it ishereby contemplated that multiple containers 680 may be used or may beformed by any other number of parts such as a single unitary part, two,three, four, or more parts.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, in FIG. 44, top housing 612 issimply placed on top of the upper end of container 680 such that the tophousing 612 rests upon and is supported by container 680 during brewing.This arrangement is effective and simple and works efficiently. Thisarrangement, however, is susceptible to being tipped over.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, in FIG. 45, container 680 isthreadably connected to the top housing 612. In the arrangement shown,as one example, container 680 includes connecting features 692 at upperside of the exterior surface 682. Connecting features 692 are formed ofany suitable size, shape and design and are configured to connect thecontainer 680 to the top housing 612. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, connecting features 692 are formed of threads that are engagedby threads 674 in a downwardly extending collar 670 connected to lip 622in sealing threaded engagement. However, any other attachment means forengaging the container 680 to the top housing 612 are herebycontemplated for use, including but not limited to, friction fittings,lugs, interlocking, or other means.

Collar:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lip 622 of top housing 612includes a collar 670. Collar 670 is formed of any suitable size, shapeand design and is configured to attach a container 680 to the tophousing 612. With reference to FIG. 45, as shown as one example, collar670 is formed of an upper section 676 which extends in a parallel spacedrelation to the bottom side 616 of the top housing 612 and a lowersection 678, which extends perpendicularly at the perimeter of uppersection 676, in a circular ring-like manner.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, collar 670 includes agenerally circular opening positioned at its middle that is defined bythreads 674 located opposite, or along the interior surface, of theexterior surface 672 of the collar 670. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the threads 674 of the interior surface are sized and shaped tomatingly receive and hold the connecting features 692 of the container680 in threaded engagement thereby connecting and sealing the twocomponents together. This arrangement allows for easy, simple, secureand sealed engagement by threading the two components together, whilealso allowing for easy and simple disengagement by unthreading the twocomponents apart.

In an alternative arrangement, the top housing 612 may not include acollar 670. Top housing 612 can function without a collar 670. In thisarrangement, as is shown in an example, the top housing 612 is without acollar 670. The top housing 612 rests upon a container and need not besealed to a container or threadably attached or frictionally fit.Instead the process of brewing takes place without a collar 670.

Seal:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the collar 670 includes a seal668. Seal 668 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to seal the top rim of the container 680 to the bottom sideof the upper section 676 of the collar 670. Seal 668 is configured suchthat any fluid 690 within the container 680, or the rest of system 610,is held within system 610. In other words, whether the system 610 is onits side, upside down, or rolling around in a carrying case, the system610 is sealed and capable of holding all fluids, coffee grounds, orother contents within the hollow interior 684 of the container 680 orwithin the hollow interior 660 of the basket housing 650, when thecontainer 680 is engaged with the collar 670. In this arrangement, as isshown in one example, seal 668 is in constant contact with the exterior,top of the container 680, the rim forming the open upper end 688 of thecontainer 680. When container 680 is engaged with seal 668 the hollowinterior of container 680 and the lower end of system 610 is a closedsystem that cannot leak.

Basket Housing:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, top housing 612 of system 610includes a basket housing 650. Basket housing 650 is formed of anysuitable size, shape and design and is configured to connect to tophousing 612 and accept and hold the basket 694 of system 610. In thearrangement shown, as one example, basket housing 650 is formed of a topside 652 and a bottom side 654 which extend in approximate parallelspaced relation to one another. Top side 652 is generally flat andcircular and is adjoined at its perimeter by exterior wall 658.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, exterior wall 658 forms ahollow interior 660. Hollow interior 660 is formed of any suitable size,shape and design and is configured to receive a basket 694, which willbe described further herein. In the arrangement shown, as one example,hollow interior 660 is configured to frictionally fit basket 694 withclose and tight tolerances so as to form a seal which fluid 690 cannotpass through, except through the defined path(s) defined by tube 638.Basket housing 650 and basket 694 may be connected to one another by anyother manner, method or means, such as threaded engagement, frictionalengagement, snap-fit, detents, or any other manner, method or means ofconnecting two components together or any combination thereof.

Said another way, basket housing 650 is designed to fit basket 694,and/or the coffee grounds holding device 710 in close and tighttolerances at a receiving member 662. The receiving member 662,discussed in further detail herein, creates a fit of close and tighttolerances while a punch 666 punctures the top of the coffee groundsholding device 710. Subsequently, a nozzle 704 or other opening allowsfor the fluid to flow out of the bottom of the basket 694 that may beassociated with another punch 666 in the lower end of basket 694.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, basket housing 650 is sealedto the lower end of top housing 612 by any manner method or means suchas by threading, adhering, welding, molding, gluing, screwing, bolting,or the like. In this way, the basket housing 650 seals to the lower endof top housing 612 and seals the hollow interior of top housing 612

Basket:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 610 includes a basket694. Basket 694 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and isconfigured to house the coffee grounds holding device 710. Additionally,basket 694 is configured to provide a seal against basket housing 650.In the arrangement shown, as one example, basket 694 is formed of a topside 696 and a bottom side 698 which extend in approximate parallelspaced relation to one another.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, basket 694 also includes anexterior wall 706 which forms a hollow interior of basket 694. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the upper part of exterior wall 706of the basket 694 adjoins a collar 700. Collar 700 is generally circularand extends the perimeter of the top part of basket 694. Collar 700 isconfigured to engage the receiving member 662 of the basket housing 650with close and tight tolerances. In this way, basket 694 frictionallyengages top housing 612, however any other form of engagement is herebycontemplated for use including threaded engagement, snap fit engagement,or the like or any combination thereof.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the bottom side 698 of basket694 includes a nozzle 704 and in some cases another punch 666. Nozzle704 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configuredto provide an opening for fluid to flow through the bottom of the basket694 and into a container 680. In the arrangement shown, as one example,fluid 690 passes through a coffee grounds holding device 710 within thehollow interior of the basket 694 before passing through the nozzle 704.Basket 694 also includes a punch 666. Punch 666 is formed of any devicethat forms a hole into the coffee grounds holding device 710 to allowthe passage of fluid out of coffee grounds holding device 710 and outnozzle 704.

Coffee Grounds Holding Device:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 610 is used inassociation with a coffee grounds holding device 710. Coffee groundsholding device 710 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. Inone arrangement, as is shown, coffee grounds holding device 710 isformed of what is commonly known as a “K-cup” which was designed andoriginally manufactured and distributed under the name Keurig which ispart of Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. which has its headquarters inWaterbury, Vt. These coffee grounds holding devices 710 are single use,single serve and are formed of a plastic container that is generallycylindrical in shape and narrows as it extends downward beforeterminating in a bottom wall. The coffee grounds holding device 710includes a lip 716 connected to the top side 712 of exterior wall 720and extends outward therefrom. However, any other form of a coffeegrounds holding device 710 is hereby contemplated for use such as areusable holder, or any other form or configuration of a coffee groundholding device 710.

The hollow interior formed by the coffee grounds holding device 710 isenclosed by a cover 714. A bottom side 718 of the coffee grounds holdingdevice 710 is configured as the bottom surface of the coffee groundsholding device 710 and holds an amount of coffee grounds 722 therein.The bottom side 718 is capable of being pierced or punched, by punch666, which allows for the passage of fluids there through whilepreventing the passage of coffee grounds 722. This arrangement allowsfor quick and easy insertion and removal of a coffee grounds holdingdevice 710 into the basket 694.

Tube:

In the arrangement shown, portable coffee brewing system 610 is used inassociation with a tube 638. Tube 638 may be formed of any suitablesize, shape and design and is configured to recirculate water from thecontainer 680 to the coffee grounds holding device 710.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, tube 638 is formed of anelongated elastomer with a hollow interior having an inlet end 640 andan outlet end 642. In the arrangement shown, as one example, tube 638extends in a continuous and uninterrupted manner from inlet end 640 tooutlet end 642 thereby eliminating any need for seams, which can leak orbreak and/or can hold bacteria therein. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the inlet end 640 is extended by the elongated tube 638 andrests in the fluid 690 of the container 680. In the arrangement shown,as one example, the tube 638 then passes into the top housing 612 wherethe tube 638 is engaged by a pump 636. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, after engaging the pump 636, the tube 638 extends into thebasket housing 650 and connects to the nozzle 664 that connects to apunch 666. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outlet end 642is attached to upper side of the nozzle 664 of the basket housing 650which connects to punch 666. In this way, the outlet end 642 connectswith the basket housing 650 so fluid 690 can move directly into thebasket housing 650. This arrangement prevents fluid 690 from enteringinto the hollow interior 620 of the top housing 612.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a silicone rubber (anelastomer) is used. Silicone rubber is generally non-reactive, stable,and resistant to extreme environments such as hot and cold whilemaintaining its useful properties, such as, holding water and theability to move fluid from one location to another without leaking(absent any adhesions or holes). In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, silicone rubber tubing is used. However, other materials orconfigurations of tubing are hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the silicone rubber tubing ishighly flexible. This is advantageous and novel because of theincorporation of a peristaltic pump 636 in this operation. Byincorporating a peristaltic pump 636 in the top housing 612, the needfor connections is eliminated. This prevents risk of leakage of fluid690 into the top housing 612. Additionally, this prevents any fluid 690contamination because the peristaltic pump 636 never comes into contactwith the fluid 690. Additionally, this enhances the flavor of the brewedbeverage because the water is never diluted with any metal toxins orother resins or surfaces it may pick up from contact with mechanicalequipment and the like. It is known in the art that some coffee brewingmethods filter water multiple times to preserve the flavor of the brewedbeverage. Therefore, the incorporation of a flexible silicone tube and aperistaltic pump is both novel and non-obvious for a portable coffeebrewing system 610. In addition, the use of the peristaltic pump 636makes it easier to clean the system 10

Pump:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, portable coffee brewing system610 is used in association with a pump 636. Pump 636 may be formed ofany suitable size, shape and design and is configured to move fluid 690as well as air.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, pump 636 is a peristalticpump. A peristaltic pump is a positive displacement pump used forpumping a variety of fluids. Peristaltic pumps are commonly known asroller pumps. When a fluid 690 is contained within tube 638, tube beinga flexible tube 638, a rotor or number of rotors rolls and compress theflexible tube. As the rotors turn, the parts of the tube undercompression is pinched closed, thus forcing the fluid 690 to movethrough the tube. Additionally, as the tube 638 opens to its naturalstate after the passing of the cam, fluid flow is induced to the pump.This process is also known as peristalsis and is used in many biologicalsystems such as the gastrointestinal tract. However, this process hasnever been used in a portable coffee brewing device.

Typically, with a peristaltic pump, there will be two or more rollersoccluding the tube 638, trapping between them a body of fluid. The bodyof fluid is then transported, at ambient pressure, toward the outlet end642 of the tube 638. Peristaltic pumps may run continuously, or they maybe indexed through partial revolutions to deliver smaller amounts offluid.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, peristaltic pump is alsocapable of moving air through the tube 638. By using a peristaltic pump,which can move air through the tube 638, portable coffee brewing system610 has introduced a line clearing process into coffee brewing devices.In this process, while the pump is running, the top housing 612 merelyneeds to be lifted from container such that air can enter the inlet end640 of the tube 638. The peristaltic pump will then move air throughoutthe entire tube 638 to clear the tube 638 of any fluid 690.

This process is advantageous over other coffee brewing devices known inthe art because known devices do not have a tube clearing process.Current known devices are capable of collecting fluid and allowingbacterial growth, clogging of tubes, among many other problems. For thisreason, manufacturers of coffee brewing devices go to great lengths torequire their machines be cleaned frequently by harsh chemicals.Introduction of harsh chemicals can not only damage the device, butcause human harm if left unrinsed. Additionally, any safe level ofremaining chemicals in a brewing device line would contaminate theflavor of a brewed fluid. For this reason and many more, the pump 636 asdescribed herein offers many advantages.

In an alternative arrangement, the system 610 may include a liftmechanism 736 which is capable of lifting or removing the inlet end 640of the tube 638 out of the fluid 690 such that air may enter the tube638 and begin the line clearing process without any human intervention.The lift mechanism 736 would be programmed on a timer 628 or triggeredby another sensor programmed into the microprocessor 626.

Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, as one example, the pump 636 isable to run in reverse. This eliminates the step of lifting the tophousing 612 out of the container such that air can enter into the inletend 640. Instead, by incorporating a pump 636 which can run in thereverse direction, the entire brewing process can take place, along withline clearing, without any human interaction.

In an alternative embodiment, a reservoir 630 may also be introduced. Inthis case, a reservoir 630 could be housed within top housing 612 andintroduce added fluid 690 which has not been brewed. This fluid 690 canbe used for line clearing as well of for fluid dilution. Fluid dilutionis common with the cold brewing process. The cold brewing processcommonly creates a more potent, or concentrated, coffee. Fluid dilutionmay be desired.

With the introduction of a reservoir 630, a single tube 638 may still beused due to the properties of silicone tubing. Silicone tubing can becured into a single piece. Additionally, check valves may be introducedto the system to prevent fluid from flowing into the reservoir 630 or inother undesired directions. Additionally, a reservoir 630 may beaccompanied by a heating element 656 for warming fluid 690. Even withthe introduction of check valves or an additional number of pumps 636, anovel feature of the arrangement shown, is that no fluid 690 would beable to leak into the top housing 612 where many electronic componentsand other mechanical components are housed. The introduction of water orother fluids with power and electronic components is undesired.

As one example, with reference to FIG. 52, a check valve 740 may beplaced in tube 638 at or near the outlet end 642 of tube 638 and a checkvalve 742 may be placed at the inlet from reservoir 630. In thisarrangement, in normal operation, pump 630 recirculates fluid from inletend 640 of tube 638 through the outlet end 642 of tube 638 and thepresence of the check valves 740, 742 prevent fluid from flowingbackward. At the end of the brewing process, which may be identified bya timer or when the user manually stops the brewing process, pump 636operates in reverse thereby pulling fluid from reservoir 630 (note thisfluid may be air or water or any other fluid) and push this fluidthrough tube 638 out the inlet end 640 of the tube 638 thereby clearingand cleaning the tube 638 for future uses. The tube 638 can also becleaned by circulating clean water or other cleaning fluids through tube638 using pump 636.

Microprocessor:

In the arrangement shown, portable coffee brewing system 610 is used inassociation with a microprocessor 626. Microprocessor 626 may be formedof any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to control thefunctions of all the processing and controls of system 610. In thearrangement shown, as one example, microprocessor 626 is a multipurposedigital integrated circuit that accepts binary data as input, processesit according to instructions stored in its memory, and provides resultsas output. Microprocessor 626 contains both combinational logic andsequential digital logic. Microprocessor 626 operates on numbers andsymbols.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, microprocessor 626 isintegrated into the functionality of the On/Off button 624, the plug 646(or power source), and the pump 636, among other components. Whilemicroprocessor 626 is shown as working with one pump and one externalpower source, in the arrangement as is shown, any number of pumps, powersources, timers, indicators, or other components which can beintegrated, controlled and/or tied into the functionality of amicroprocessor 626 are hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, a microprocessor 626, with the integration ofa whole CPU (computer processing unit), is on one single chip to greatlyreduces the cost and to greatly reduce the power consumed by portablecoffee brewing system 610. This greatly increases the efficiency ofsystem 610 and makes it possible that portable coffee brewing system 610to be powered by lower power output sources. Additionally, other powersources are hereby contemplated for use, such as, a hardline (or commonpower outlet), a cell phone, a usb cord connected to computer or otherelectronic, a small solar power source, a usb connected to a campfirepower generator, or a small power cell (or battery) housed within system610 or outside of system 610. These and other power sources are herebycontemplated for use. In one arrangement, as is shown, a power cell islocated within the top housing 612 of system 610. Also shown, is a plug646 which can be plugged into a common power outlet, so a user may plugin system 610 almost anywhere.

Socket & Plug:

In the arrangement shown, system 610 is used in association with asocket 644. Socket 644 may be formed of any suitable size, shape anddesign and is configured to connect the interior components whichrequire power to the exterior power lead 648 and plug 646. Any form of asocket 644 that connects two components together and allows forelectrical transmission there between is hereby contemplated for use.This includes, but is not limited to, a two wire socket, a three wiresocket, a headphone jack, a USB socket, or any other form of a socket.Socket 644 is sized and shaped to matingly receive plug 646 in aremovable manner. Plug 646 is connected to power lead 648. Power lead isdesigned to be connected to an external power source, such as a wallplug in, a USB power, a cigarette lighter socket in a vehicle, or anyother power source. In one arrangement, system 610 includes a completelyself-contained power source within top housing 612 such as one or morebatteries which may be rechargeable, or not rechargeable.

On/Off Button & Indicator:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 610 includes an On/Offbutton 624. On/Off button 624 may be formed of any suitable size, shapeand design and is configured to start or stop the brewing process.Additionally, the On/Off button 624 may start or stop a timer 628associated with the brewing process. Additionally, the On/Off button 624may be used for other functions such as Bluetooth pairing capabilitiesor control for reverse and line clearing processes. Various On/Offbutton 624 functionalities can be programmed into the linkedmicroprocessor 626, which vary depending on the amount of times theOn/Off button 624 is pressed or the duration at which the On/Off button624 is held down.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, On/Off button 624 is formed ofa circular button located on the exterior wall 618 of the top housing612. However, On/Off button 624 may be located anywhere which isconvenient. Additionally, the single On/Off button 624 may be replacedby a plurality of buttons with a plurality of different functionalities.Additionally, in an alternative arrangement, no On/Off button 624 mayexist as a user may control the system 610 with a smart phone or otherconnected device, including devices connected through the internet.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, On/Off button 624 is circularand is surrounded by a circular LED light capable of a plurality ofcolors. This light is also known as the indicator 632. The indicator 632may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configuredto provide various notifications to the user of the current functionalstates of the portable coffee brewing system 610. As one example, theindicator 632 may light up when a user has pressed the On/Off button 624a single time to start the brewing process. As another example, theindicator 632 may blink a flashing light to inform the user that theOn/Off button 624 has been held down long enough to put the device inBluetooth searchable mode for other devices, such as a smart phone, to“find” the portable coffee brewing system 610.

In an alternative arrangement, indicator 632 may take the form of atimer 628. Timer 628 would provide a user with a notification of howmuch time is left in the brewing process. In one arrangement, thisamount of time may be programmed by a user to optimize the brewingprocess for different origins of coffee beans or different mediums forbrewing, such as tea or the like. In yet another arrangement, a timerindicator may be used in addition to indicator 632. Timer 628 may beformed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, timer628 is formed of a digital timer indicating minutes and seconds. Othertimers are hereby contemplated for use, including timers which are notdisplayed to the user but are instead programmed into themicroprocessor.

In Operation:

When using portable coffee brewing system 610, the user first removesthe bottom housing 724 from top housing 612. In the arrangement shown,as one example, this is accomplished by simply pulling top housing 612and bottom housing 724 apart, thereby overcoming the frictionalengagement between the two components. The user then removes the basket694 from the basket housing 650. Again, in the arrangement shown, as oneexample, this is accomplished by simply pulling the basket 694 from thebasket housing 650 thereby overcoming the frictional engagement betweenthe two components. The user places a k-cup, or coffee grounds holdingdevice 710 with coffee grounds 722 into the hollow interior of thebasket 694 with the cover 714 of the coffee grounds holding device atthe top of the basket 694. The user pushes down on the coffee groundsholding device 710 thereby causing the punch 666 in the lower portion ofthe basket 694 to puncture the bottom of the coffee grounds holdingdevice 710 thereby forming an outlet for fluid running through thecoffee grounds holding device 710.

Once the coffee grounds holding device 710 is inserted within basket694, the basket 694 is frictionally fit into the basket housing 650. Thebasket 694 is frictionally fit within the hollow interior 660 of baskethousing 650 by pressing the basket 694 into the basket housing 650. Whenthe basket 694 is pressed within the hollow interior 660 of the baskethousing 650, the collar 700 of the exterior wall 706 engages thereceiving member 662 of the hollow interior 660 of the basket housing650 thereby holding the two components frictionally together. The basket694 will engage the basket housing 650 with close and tight tolerancessuch that no fluid 690 can escape.

When the basket 694 and coffee grounds holding device 710 are pressedinto the basket housing 650, the punch 666 of the basket housing 650penetrates the cover 714 of the coffee grounds holding device 710. Whenthe punch 666 penetrates the cover 714, a clear path for which fluid canflow into the coffee grounds holding device 710 is created.

Once the basket 694 is placed within the basket housing 650, a container680, filled with fluid, can be attached to the top housing 612.Alternatively the top housing 612 could be placed on top of anycontainer 680. A ball jar, or threaded rim jar may be attached to thecollar 670 of the top housing 612 by rotating the ball jar to engage theconnecting features 692, or threads, with the threads 674 of the collar670. The ball jar should be rotated until the top of the rim of the balljar engages with the seal 668. Engaging the ball jar (container 680)with the seal 668 creates a closed position.

In this closed position, portable coffee brewing system 610 may betransported in a pre-brewed state. Alternatively, portable coffeebrewing system 610 may be transported while brewing is occurring. Fluidheld within the hollow interior 684 of the container 680 is held inplace and does not leak as the container is sealed against the tophousing 612. In addition, the basket housing 650 seals the upper end ofthe container 680. As such, portable coffee brewing system 610 may betransported in a pre-brewed state, or during the brewing process,without fear of leaking.

Once the user gets to their desired location, and/or the time is right,the user plugs in the portable coffee brewing system 610, or in a system610 that is powered by an internal power cell, the user activates thebrewing process. In the arrangement shown, as one example, a plug isshown hard-wired from the system 610 to a power outlet. However, otherpower sources are hereby contemplated for use such as a USB port wiredto a cell phone or computer, a self-contained battery, a solar activatedpower source, or the like.

The user activates system 610 by pressing the On/Off button 624. In thearrangement shown, as one example, On/Off button is located in theexterior wall 618 of the top housing 612. Upon activation, theperistaltic pump 636 is powered on. The peristaltic pump 636 will beginpulling fluid 690 in the inlet end 640 of the tube 638. The fluid 690will move through the tube 638, out of the outlet end 642 where theoutlet end 642 is connected to the nozzle 664 of the basket housing 650.The fluid 690 will enter the coffee grounds holding device 710 throughthe puncture previously generated by the punch 666 in the cover 714 andout the opening formed by the punch 666 in the lower end of the basket694 and out the nozzle 704. Once the fluid 690 has entered the coffeegrounds holding device 710, the brewing process between fluid 690 andcoffee grounds 722 begins. The brewing occurs in a continuousrecirculation loop for the desired amount of time.

Within the coffee grounds holding device 710, or K-cup, water or fluid690 is pulled through the coffee grounds using gravity (if the system610 is sitting on the bottom side 728 of the bottom housing 724). Thismethod of brewing is also known as gravitational feed or percolating,commonly associated with drip brew. Portable coffee brewing system 610may work this way. Alternatively, the portable coffee brewing system 610will also work even if it is placed on its side.

Another brewing method is pressurized percolation. As the peristalticpump 636 forces more fluid 690 into the interior of the coffee groundsholding device 710, the fluid is forced through system 610 by pressure.This is a low pressure brewing method, however a high pressure brewingmethod is also hereby contemplated for use.

As the fluid is forced, either by pressure or by gravity through thecoffee grounds holding device 710, the fluid 690 interacts with thecoffee grounds 722 and extracts the correct degree of contents from thecoffee including, in some cases, caffeine, among other flavors andaromas. More technically, the fluid 690 is dissolving the coffee groundsinto soluble flavors. Various ratios can be programmed in differentcircumstances to create an optimal extraction strength and brew ratio.

Once the brewing process is complete and the fluid 690 has extracted thecontents from the coffee grounds 722, the brewed fluid enters an openingformed by punch 666 at the bottom of the coffee grounds holding device710 and exits the bottom through a nozzle 704.

In an alternative arrangement, once the brewing process is complete andthe fluid 690 has extracted the desired amount of contents from thecoffee grounds 722, the brewed fluid is forced through the bottom of thecoffee grounds holding device 710 and into the lower part of the hollowinterior of the basket 694. Once in the basket 694, the brewed coffeemoves through the nozzle 704 located at the bottom side 698 of basket694. The fluid enters the container 680.

The brewing process may be complete depending on the type of brewedbeverage desired. Another advantage of this system is that because thecontents are returned to the container 680, they are able to berecirculated through the system 610 for however long is desired. In thearrangement shown, as one example, fluid 690 may be recirculated throughthe system for 20 minutes to create an optimal “cold brew”. Any amountof time is hereby contemplated for use. The contents can be brewed atroom temperature or placed in a cooling device to brew at coldertemperatures. Also, warm fluid may be used. While the arrangement shown,as one example, does not include a heating or cooling apparatus, aheating or cooling apparatus to change the brewing temperature andconditions is hereby contemplated for use.

After brewing has completed, when the user is ready to drink coffee,tea, or whatever else was brewed, the user simply removes the container680 from the top housing 612. The user may allow the line to clear byhovering the top housing 612 over the container 680 for a moment suchthat air is pumped into and through the tube 638 by pump 636 therebyclearing and cleaning tube 638. By hovering the top housing 612 over thecontainer 680, no drips are spilled to undesired locations. Once the tophousing 612 is removed, the user can drink the contents of the container680.

Another advantage of this system is that the fluid 690 and the coffeegrounds 722 are kept in an environment free of oxygen turnover. Brewedcoffee, if kept hot, will deteriorate rapidly in flavor, as the heatacts as a catalyst in more rapid oxygen turnover with the coffee.Furthermore, reheating coffee after it has cooled tends to give it a“muddy” flavor, as reheating destroys compounds in the coffee that giveit its flavors. Even when brewed at room temperature, deterioration ofthe coffee flavors will occur. However, if the coffee can be keptoxygen-free or relatively free of oxygen turnover, then it can retainits flavors, almost indefinitely (at room temperature). Thus, a sealedcontainer, and furthermore, a sealed brewing device, deliver a higherquality, more flavorful coffee.

The portable coffee brewing system 610 is sealed entirely from theexterior by close and tight tolerances. The tube 638 is a unitary piecethat does not allow oxygen turnover. The basket 694, basket housing 650,and container 680 are all sealed away from oxygen turnover. Thisprovides a brewing process and sealed environment which will allow thecoffee to retain and maintain its flavor.

This process may be repeated however many times the user desires. Theuser simply needs to replace the extracted coffee grounds 722 with freshgrounds. In other words, the user may replace the K-cup with a new K-cupwhich hasn't been used and place a second container with the desiredamount of fluid 690 against the top housing 612.

Alternative Embodiment: With reference to FIG. 52 an alternativearrangement of portable coffee brewing system 610 is presented. Thisalternative arrangement presented in FIG. 52 is similar to portablecoffee brewing system 610 presented in FIGS. 41-51, and therefore,unless specifically stated otherwise, the teachings presented hereinapply to the embodiment presented in FIG. 52.

In the arrangement shown, as on example, countertop coffee brewingsystem 610 utilizes a similar method, process, and device for brewingcoffee as referenced to FIGS. 41-51. The countertop coffee brewingsystem 610 with reference to the associated embodiment of FIGS. 41-51presented herein are similar.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, and with reference to FIG. 52,the countertop brewing system 610 utilizes a housing 612. Housing 612has a top side 614, a bottom side 616, an exterior wall 618 and a hollowinterior 620. Housing 612 also has a large brewing space 738 where thecontainer 680 can rest. Additionally, in brewing space 738, the coffeegrounds holding device 710 can be inserted and removed.

From the above discussion, it will be appreciated that portable coffeebrewing device presented improves upon the state of the art. That is,the portable coffee brewing device shown and described herein: is easyto use; brews a pleasing and high quality cup of coffee; is inexpensiveto manufacture; has an intuitive design; has a robust and durabledesign; has a long and useful life; has a simple and ergonomic design;allows a user to make a fresh cup of coffee whenever and wherever theyso desire; allows a user to load the device with water and coffeegrounds at one time and one place while allowing for brewing of thecoffee at another time and another place; uses what are known as K-cups;has an appealing design; is safe to use; is easy to clean; and does notleak; among countless other features and advantages.

Note that reference to coffee brewing herein is only by way of example.It is hereby contemplated that the system 10 can be used to brew any hotbeverage such as tea, apple cider, hot chocolate, or the like and is notlimited to coffee.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other variousmodifications could be made to the device without parting from thespirit and scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changesfall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be coveredthereby.

What is claimed:
 1. A portable coffee brewing system, comprising: a tophousing; the top housing extending a length from a top side to a bottomside; the top housing having an exterior wall; the top housing having ahollow interior; a pump; the pump positioned within the hollow interiorof the top housing; a tube; the tube having an inlet end and an outletend; wherein the tube is operatively connected to the pump; a punch; thepunch operatively connected to the outlet end of the tube; a baskethousing; the basket housing operatively connected to the top housing;the basket housing having a receiving member; a coffee grounds holdingdevice; the coffee grounds holding device having an exterior wall thecoffee grounds holding device having a hollow interior; a basket; thebasket having an exterior wall; the basket having a hollow interior; thebasket having a collar positioned at an upper end of the basket; thebasket having a nozzle positioned at a lower end of the basket; thebasket configured to receive the coffee grounds holding device withinthe hollow interior of the basket; wherein when the coffee groundsholding device is placed within the hollow interior of the basket, thebasket is attached to the basket housing such that the receiving memberof the basket housing engages the collar of the basket; wherein when theinlet end of the tube is placed within fluid held by a container and thepump is activated, the pump recirculates fluid from the container,through the inlet end of the tube, out the outlet end of the tube,through the coffee grounds holding device held within the basket, outthrough the nozzle of the basket and back into the container.
 2. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein the collar of the basket is frictionally heldby the receiving member of the basket housing.
 3. The system of claim 2,wherein the collar of the basket threadably engages the receiving memberof the basket housing.
 4. The system of claim 2, wherein the collar ofthe basket snaps into or onto the receiving member of the baskethousing.
 5. The system of claim 2, further comprising the basket havinga punch, wherein the punch is configured to puncture the coffee groundsholding device thereby providing an outlet for fluid injected into thecoffee grounds holding device to exit the coffee grounds holding device.6. The system of claim 2, wherein the basket housing is configured toenclose a lower end of the hollow interior of the top housing.
 7. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein the pump is a peristaltic pump.
 8. The systemof claim 2, further comprising a button, wherein the button isconfigured to facilitate the activation and deactivation of the pump. 9.The system of claim 2, further comprising a timer, wherein the timer isconfigured to facilitate the timed activation and deactivation of thepump.
 10. The system of claim 2, further comprising a microprocessor,wherein the microprocessor is configured to facilitate operation of thesystem.
 11. The system of claim 2, further comprising an indicator,wherein the indicator is configured to identify the state of operationof the system.
 12. The system of claim 2, further comprising a socket,wherein the socket is configured to electrically connect the electroniccomponents of the system to an external power source.
 13. The system ofclaim 2, wherein the punch of the basket housing is configured topenetrate a cover of the coffee grounds holding device when the basketis attached to the basket housing.
 14. The system of claim 2, whereinthe fluid is recirculated through the coffee grounds holding device morethan once.
 15. The system of claim 2, wherein the fluid is recirculatedthrough the coffee grounds holding device for a predetermined amount oftime.
 16. The system of claim 2, wherein when the inlet end of the tubeis exposed to air, the pump moves air through the tube thereby clearingthe tube.
 17. The system of claim 2, wherein the pump is configured tooperate in both a forward direction and a reverse direction by reversingthe direction of flow of power through the pump.
 18. The system of claim2, wherein the top housing further comprises a self-contained powersource.
 19. The system of claim 2, further comprising a water reservoir.20. The system of claim 2, further comprising a heating elementconfigured to heat water during the brewing process.
 21. The system ofclaim 2, further comprising a lift mechanism wherein the lift mechanismremoves the inlet end of the tube from the fluid.
 22. The system ofclaim 2, further comprising at least one check valve operatively engagedwith the tube, the at least one check valve configured to prevent flowthrough the tube in one direction while allowing flow through the tubein an opposite direction.
 23. The system of claim 2, wherein the a lipof the top housing rests upon an upper end of the container.
 24. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein the top housing threadably engages an upperend of the container.
 25. The system of claim 2, wherein the top housingthreadably engages an upper end of the container and seals the fluidwithin the container.
 26. The system of claim 2, further comprising abottom housing; the bottom housing extending a length from a top sideand a bottom side; the bottom housing having an exterior wall the bottomhousing having a hollow interior; the bottom housing having a connectingfeature; wherein a connecting feature of the bottom housing engages theconnecting feature of the top housing, whereby the top housing and thebottom housing are connected and seal the hollow interior of the bottomhousing and the top housing.
 27. A method of brewing, comprising:providing a top housing extending a length from a top side to a bottomside; the top housing having an exterior wall and a hollow interior;providing a pump positioned within the hollow interior of the tophousing; providing a tube having an inlet end and an outlet end whereinthe tube is operatively connected to the pump; providing a punchoperatively connected to the outlet end of the tube; providing a baskethousing having a receiving member; wherein the basket housing isoperatively connected to the top housing; providing a coffee groundsholding device having an exterior wall and a hollow interior; providinga basket having an exterior wall, a hollow interior, a collar positionedat an upper end of the basket, and a nozzle positioned at a lower end ofthe basket; wherein the basket is configured to receive the coffeegrounds holding device within the hollow interior of the basket; placingthe coffee grounds holding device within the hollow interior of thebasket; placing the basket in the receiving member of the basket housingsuch that the receiving member of the basket housing engages the collarof the basket; placing the inlet end of the tube in a fluid held by acontainer; activating the pump; recirculating the fluid from thecontainer, through the inlet end of the tube, out the outlet end of thetube, through the coffee grounds holding device held within the basket,out through the nozzle of the basket and back into the container.
 28. Acountertop coffee brewing system, comprising: a housing; the housingextending a length from a top side to a bottom side; the housing havingan exterior wall ; the housing having a hollow interior; a pump; thepump positioned within the hollow interior of the housing; a tube; thetube having an inlet end and an outlet end; wherein the tube isoperatively connected to the pump; a receiving member; the receivingmember operatively connected to the housing; a basket; the basket havingan exterior wall; the basket having a hollow interior; the basket havinga collar positioned at an upper end of the basket; the basket having anozzle positioned at a lower end of the basket; the basket configured toreceive coffee grounds within the hollow interior of the basket; whereinwhen the basket is attached to the receiving member of the housing, thereceiving member of the housing engages the collar of the basket;wherein when the inlet end of the tube is placed within fluid held by acontainer and the pump is activated, the pump recirculates fluid fromthe container, through the inlet end of the tube, out the outlet end ofthe tube, through the basket held within the receiving member of thehousing, out through the nozzle of the basket and back into thecontainer.
 29. The system of claim 28, further comprising a punchwherein the punch is operatively connected to the outlet end of thetube.
 30. The system of claim 28, further comprising a coffee groundsholding device; the coffee grounds holding device having an exteriorwall; the coffee grounds holding device having a hollow interior;wherein when the coffee grounds holding device is placed within thehollow interior of the basket, the basket is attached to the receivingmember of the housing such that the receiving member of the housingengages the collar of the basket.
 31. The system of claim 28, whereinthe collar of the basket is frictionally held by the receiving member ofthe housing.
 32. The system of claim 28, wherein the collar of thebasket threadably engages the receiving member of the housing.
 33. Thesystem of claim 28, wherein the collar of the basket snaps into or ontothe receiving member of the housing.
 34. The system of claim 28, furthercomprising the basket having a punch, wherein the punch is configured topuncture the coffee grounds holding device thereby providing an outletfor fluid injected into the coffee grounds holding device to exit thecoffee grounds holding device.
 35. The system of claim 28, wherein thereceiving member of the housing is configured to enclose the hollowinterior of the housing.
 36. The system of claim 28, wherein the pump isa peristaltic pump.
 37. The system of claim 28, further comprising abutton, wherein the button is configured to facilitate the activationand deactivation of the pump.
 38. The system of claim 28, furthercomprising a timer, wherein the timer is configured to facilitate thetimed activation and deactivation of the pump.
 39. The system of claim28, further comprising a microprocessor, wherein the microprocessor isconfigured to facilitate operation of the system.
 40. The system ofclaim 28, further comprising an indicator, wherein the indicator isconfigured to identify the state of operation of the system.
 41. Thesystem of claim 28, further comprising a socket, wherein the socket isconfigured to electrically connect the electronic components of thesystem to an external power source.
 42. The system of claim 28, whereinthe punch of the receiving member is configured to penetrate a cover ofthe coffee grounds holding device when the basket is attached to thereceiving member of the housing.
 43. The system of claim 28, wherein thefluid is recirculated through the basket more than once.
 44. The systemof claim 28, wherein the fluid is recirculated through the basket for apredetermined amount of time.
 45. The system of claim 28, wherein whenthe inlet end of the tube is exposed to air, the pump moves air throughthe tube thereby clearing the tube.
 46. The system of claim 28, whereinthe pump is configured to operate in both a forward direction and areverse direction by reversing the direction of flow of power throughthe pump.
 47. The system of claim 28, wherein the housing furthercomprises a self-contained power source.
 48. The system of claim 28,further comprising a water reservoir.
 49. The system of claim 28,further comprising a heating element configured to heat water during thebrewing process.
 50. The system of claim 28, further comprising a liftmechanism wherein the lift mechanism removes the inlet end of the tubefrom the fluid.
 51. The system of claim 28, further comprising at leastone check valve operatively engaged with the tube, the at least onecheck valve configured to prevent flow through the tube in one directionwhile allowing flow through the tube in an opposite direction.